House of Commons · Westminster Hall
14 May 2025 · 11 other contributors · 5,408 words
Opened by Andy MacNae Lab Rossendale and Darwen
Responding minister: Alex Norris
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Andy MacNae raised concerns about rebalancing regional economies in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The Government must ensure that investment planning does not default to big cities but considers the unique needs of small towns and rural areas. Growth should translate into real and tangible change for all neighbourhoods, ensuring good jobs, accessible opportunities, clean and safe environments, thriving businesses, and improved transport systems.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Last year’s Budget freed up £113 billion of infrastructure investment, but it is not clear what this means for small towns like Rossendale and Darwen. Productivity in these areas remains low despite efforts to stimulate growth through industrial strategies and new trade deals. The cost of living and housing crises have hit hardest in these regions, and the presumption that better transport into cities is the solution misses the point.
Highlighted the productivity gap between Greater Manchester and London despite its fast-growing economy. Emphasised the need for major investments such as the Northern Arc to double the region's economy in 30 years. Afzal Khan points out the high child poverty rate in Manchester, stating that 11 children per class of 30 are living in poverty. He asks if tackling child poverty should be central to regional rebalancing plans.
Welcomed the news of 12,000 civil servants moving out of London into the regions. Recommended that some should come from the Department for Business and Trade to focus on sectors like automotive and advanced manufacturing.
Agreed with the previous concerns and highlighted the valley location of his hon. Friend's constituency, emphasizing that issues on this road would cause significant disruption. He also advocated for updating the Green Book to ensure objective advice on public investment, encouraging colleagues to engage with the Treasury about future updates.
Emphasised the need to address infrastructure constraints to fully realise the potential of neighbourhood plans.
Agreed with the hon. Member's point about 'feeding people' from small towns into cities being patronising, highlighting that residents of these towns want their own success and have pride in them.
Complimented the hon. Member for securing the debate and agreed with the need for regional rebalancing. Discussed Invest Northern Ireland's relocation strategy to promote growth outside Belfast, stressing that location should not overtake viability.
Supported the hon. Member's call for seizing opportunities in Treasury’s review of Green Book methodology to drive growth in regions and constituencies like hers through integrated transport strategies.
Agreed with the importance of devolving power and funding to create jobs across all UK regions as per a 2011 IPPR North report. Inquired about the subsidiarity principle in devolution, advocating for powers to be closer to communities.
Supported the need for nuanced geographical and socioeconomic factors in regional rebalancing, citing issues specific to remote coastal communities. Asked about the flexibility of devolution models for areas like Cornwall.
Emphasised the unique challenges faced by rural and coastal communities in terms of deprivation and neglect. Suggested that the Government must adopt a tailored approach, taking into account the rural premium in the index of multiple deprivation.
Suggested extending growth corridors like Oxford-Cambridge down to areas such as Swindon for regional economic benefit.
Government Response
Alex NorrisThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government
Alex Norris affirms the government's commitment to transferring power and resources from Westminster to local communities. He highlights that growth is a priority but must ensure opportunities are spread across the UK. The Minister agrees with Afzal Khan on the importance of tackling child poverty as part of regional rebalancing plans. Discussed devolution efforts, including local growth plans, power transfer to mayors, and the plan for neighbourhoods with a £1.5 billion commitment.