On Monday, 16 December, the Government published an English Devolution White Paper which set out its plans to deliver a wave of local government reorganisation.
The White Paper lays out proposals for the introduction of a “devolution framework” that will standardise combined authority governance, as well as plans to create new ‘Strategic Authorities’ in areas where a combined authority does not already exist.
The Paper also sets out intentions to offer greater powers for combined authority Mayors, commitments to consult on powers to suspend members involved in code of conduct complaints and the creation of a new national body to deal with "the most serious" standards complaints.
Cllr Chris Watkins, Leader of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council and Portfolio holder for Housing, said:
“We have listened to the Deputy Prime Minister’s speech on Monday and are reading the White Paper with an open mind.
“Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council will continue to work alongside partners to consider how residents can get a better deal.
“However, local representation and accountability is important. For this reason, we are passionate in our view that the needs of the borough are properly represented. We remain steadfast in our belief that local people are best served by local democracy.
“We must ensure that all areas of the county are treated and represented fairly, while securing the best possible deal for Nuneaton and Bedworth.”