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East Midlands Local Authorities and Economic Growth 2025-04-07
07 April 2025
Lead MP
Michael Payne
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EconomyTaxationEmploymentTransport
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Michael Payne raised concerns about east midlands local authorities and economic growth 2025-04-07 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Thank you for the opportunity to speak about the importance of councils to our economy. The east midlands has suffered from deindustrialisation, lack of investment and regional disparities in public spending under Conservative mismanagement. Local government is key to economic growth and essential for social and economic security. The region receives the lowest level of spending per person across the UK. I call on the Government to support local authorities more, as they contribute directly to 20% of local GDP through projects that promote business growth, job creation, and regional investment.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Commemends the hon. Member for securing this debate and highlights the importance of Government support in economic growth.
Adam Thompson
Lab
Erewash
Supports the idea that devolution via empowered regional mayors represents a solution to problems faced by local SMEs and a route to prosperity through growth.
Andrew Rosindell
Con
Romford
Cautioned about wanting a regional mayor to take power upwards, as it might ignore the priorities of local people.
Natalie Fleet
Lab
Bolsover
Potholes are as problematic in Conservative-run Derbyshire as they are in Nottinghamshire, affecting economic growth and social inclusion.
Derby South
The government's support for regeneration is key to unlocking economic growth across the region.
Adam Thompson
Con
Erewash
Highlights the work of Erewash borough council, including solar farms and £2 million of new investments.
Government Response
Acknowledged the impact of potholes on local economies. Announced a £1.5 billion programme to revitalise neglected infrastructure in the east midlands with up to £20 million funding per area over 20 years. Mentioned the £410 million investment for clean energy, including fusion plant development. Housing developments will support construction of nearly 1,500 homes and regenerate urban sites. Highlighted the acquisition by Homes England of the Broad Marsh site in Nottingham city centre for regeneration. Emphasised local leadership's role in driving such projects forward. We have provided significant funding for regeneration projects in Derbyshire, Bassetlaw, and other regions. For instance, Derby will receive £3.75 million to transform priority areas in the city. Infinity Park is getting £1.5 million for a research and development facility, while North East Derbyshire receives £1 million for infrastructure improvements. The government supports local leadership and devolution, as demonstrated by investments from Mayor Claire Ward's EMCCA initiative. Future devolution includes the Greater Lincolnshire combined county authority with £750 million of investment over 30 years. We recognise that effective public transport is key to unlocking growth across the east midlands. We will continue to work towards local government reorganisation, aiming for rationalised tiers and community involvement in decision-making.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.