In recent months the New Economics Foundation (NEF) and the University of Sheffield have been investigating the debate on English devolution. Using papers and documents written by those proposing devolution in England – from central and local government to think tanks and civil society groups – we have quantitatively analysed the stated aims of devolution as defined by the many voices pushing for change. By mapping the devolution debate we are able to highlight questions which are being neglected. We can also begin to analyse whether areas with devolved powers will be able to match up to stated ambitions and expectations – and which powers they would require to do so.

On Thursday 3rd December, NEF and the University of Sheffield will launch the findings and bring together prominent figures from academia, think tanks and politics for a debate exploring:

What do advocates of devolution argue it can deliver in terms of economic, democratic, social and environmental outcomes and why?
Which potential outcomes of devolution receive most prominence and which issues are currently missing from the debate? What can we do about this?
Can regions live up to these expectations and which powers would they need to do so?

With the Cities and Local Government Bill going through parliament and new devolution agreements being announced, this event is a timely opportunity to discuss the merits, limits and risks of devolving powers to local levels.

We will be joined by Phillip Blond (Respublica), Jessica Studdert (New Local Government Network), Katie Ghose (Electoral Reform Society) and Sarah Ayres (University of Bristol).

Professor Matthew Flinders (Chair of the Political Studies Association) will chair the panel discussion.

There will be a drinks reception afterwards which will provide ample time for the discussion to continue.

Agenda

18:00 Welcome and presentation of the report

18:25 Our experts give a short talk on their views of English devolution

19:10 Audience questions and discussion

19:50 Final remarks

20:00 Drinks and canape reception

Places are limited, please confirm your attendance by clicking ‘Register’

Funded by Professor ADH Crook Public Service Fellowship scheme and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Impact Accelerator fund.

England’s dreaming: the new devolution debate