Andrea has called on the Government to devolve more powers to town and parish councils.
Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, Andrea welcomed the new Cities and Local Government Bill, which will see an unprecedented devolution of powers away from Whitehall and closer to the communities they affect.
In particular she welcomed the introduction of elected mayors, saying:
“It is an opportunity to attract the brightest and the best from industry to lead innovation and change, and it can make a real difference to our community, helping to restore the public’s trust in those who represent them.”
She then went on to call on the Government to do more to recognise the impact town and parish councils can make, and told the House about the work of Morley Town Council, who’s decision to introduce free parking has been a major boost to the town centre.
She said:
“I would like to see more emphasis placed on the work done by town and parish councils, and more of a role for them in devolution.
“I would like to invite the Secretary of State to look into ways through which local, town and parish councillors could be included in the devolution settlement, and I would appreciate an opportunity to meet him to discuss that.
“Morley Town Council introduced free parking, which has been a major boost to the local high street. That is just one example of the innovative work that can be done locally.”
Speaking after the debate, Andrea commented:
“This legislation is a really exciting opportunity to give power back to communities, and I feel strongly that town and parish councils should be a part of that."
Andrea is Chair of the All Party Group on Local Democracy, which is working to support parish and town councils.
You can listen to Andrea's speech below.