Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Devolving Power to Local Communities 2023-02-20

2023-02-20

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
David Simmonds Con
Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner
▸ Context
The question addresses the progress made in devolving power to local areas following recent deals.
What progress has been made on devolving power to local communities, especially after signing six new devolution deals in 2022 with £4 billion of long-term investment funding?
Dehenna Davison
In 2022, six new devolution deals were signed with York and North Yorkshire, the east midlands, Norfolk, Suffolk, Cornwall, and the north-east, involving £4 billion of long-term investment funding. With these deals implemented, more than half of the English population will benefit from devolution.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
David Simmonds Con
Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner
▸ Context
The MP inquires about measures to utilise access to nature targets through devolved powers.
My constituents benefit from places like Ruislip woods and the Pinner Memorial Park as a means of getting to green spaces. What measures does my hon. Friend have in mind to ensure that, through the access to nature target, more local authorities can use these devolution powers to create good-quality green spaces?
Dehenna Davison
Significant funds are available through the UK shared prosperity fund and the levelling-up parks fund, which can be used to regenerate green spaces. The Minister is willing to discuss this matter further with the hon. Friend.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific measures or a detailed timeline for ensuring local authorities use devolution powers effectively for green space creation.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Stephanie Peacock Lab
Barnsley South
▸ Context
The MP asks about any unspent or unallocated levelling-up funds within the relevant Department.
Can the Minister confirm whether there is levelling-up funding within the Department that has not been spent or allocated?
Dehenna Davison
The Minister is unsure about understanding the question but offers to respond in writing if the hon. Lady writes to him for clarification.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not address whether there was unspent levelling-up funding or its allocation status.
I Am Not Quite Sure Whether I Understand The Hon. Lady'S Question.
Response accuracy