Bigger, Better, Smarter: Why the extended Lyons Inquiry is good for our cities

Article

This paper argues that the expanded Lyons Inquiry is an opportunity that should not be wasted. Instead of political manoeuvring, it's time to develop concrete reforms - beginning with the devolution of real power and resources to Britain's cities.

The recent delay of the Lyons Inquiry into local government funding has been widely portrayed as a disaster - but in fact, it's rather good news.

The expansion of the Inquiry to include the role and functions of local government gives Whitehall the perfect opportunity to develop political and financial arrangements that help Britain's cities to perform better.

The UK is one of the most centralised countries in the developed world - but the economic evidence suggests that cities need real freedom in order to grow and prosper. Greater financial flexibility, policy-making independence, and strong leadership can promote economic growth. What's more, we know that scale matters, and that the case for financial devolution is strongest at a city-regional level.

This paper argues that the expanded Lyons Inquiry is an opportunity that should not be wasted. Instead of political manoeuvring, it's time to develop concrete reforms - beginning with the devolution of real power and resources to Britain's cities.

Centre for Cities has re-launched as an independent think tank. You can visit them online at http://www.centreforcities.org.

Related items

  1. Two young children run playing underneath a rainbow canopy in a park or garden

    It takes a village: Empowering families and communities to improve children's health

    How can we build the healthiest generation of children ever?

  2. Scotland: Taxed enough already? Maybe not

    It is possible to make the case for progressive increases in income tax while in government. You can win the argument, and the world won’t come to an end.  
  3. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, River Thames and Westminster Bridge

    Fairness first: How the budget can make life better and the economy stronger

    The chancellor faces a daunting task at the upcoming budget. A fiscal gap sets the stage, putting the chancellor in the unenviable position of having to raise taxes.