Commission calls for people to be given devolution voice
THE PUBLIC has a “minimal” understanding of moves to transfer powers and money from the Government to Yorkshire, according to a commission on the future of local democracy.
The Kirklees Democracy Commission, which worked with Kirklees councillors and more than 1,000 residents, said regional devolution could “provide opportunities”.
But it warned people were worried it could weaken the sense of identify in Yorkshire communities and stressed the importance of devolved government being democratically accountable.
An agreement is already in place which should see powers handed to South Yorkshire in return for electing a mayor next year although there are doubts over whether it will go ahead.
Discussions continue with the Government over a range of devolution plans for the rest of the region.
In a new report, the Kirklees Democracy Commission suggests local councils should use digital technology to help engage local people in their work.
It found there was confusion among the public over the role of local councillors and how that differs from MPs.
The Commission’s report recommends Kirklees Council reviews how it consults local people and makes its decision-making process easier to understand by providing information in clearer language.
It found some young people felt “invisible” in local politics and suggested that the national voting age should be reduced to 16.
The Commission recommended that “democratic education” should be taught in schools.
Dr Andy Mycock from Huddersfield University who chaired the commission, said: “This has been a huge piece of work with some real national significance for how we can build a stronger local democracy and – more importantly – ensure that democracy remains strong among future generations.
“Over several months we have heard from teens to the elderly and those who are currently engaged to those who currently do not believe our local democracy is relevant.”
Dr Mycock said the commission’s work had shown “there is an appetite for a strong local democracy if the connections and relevance are there.”
The report, launched at an event in Huddersfield yesterday, makes 48 recommendations in all.