Manchester deal opens floodgates to devolution

摘要

Government plans to hand extra powers to Manchester under a directly-elected 'metro-mayor' could open the floodgates to devolution in other cities and counties. Under the proposals, Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) will have powers over transport, housing, planning and policy. There will be additional powers to join up health and social care budgets, to boost business growth and to promote skills. Manchester City Council chief executive, Sir Howard Bernstein told The MJ the announcement was an 'endorsement of our overall approach to growth'. He said: 'The chancellor made the point that this is not just an important moment for Manchester, it's an important moment for all of our cities.' Launching the proposals, chancellor George Osborne said: 'I want to talk to other cities who are keen to follow Manchester's lead - every city is different and no model of local power will be the same.'