Declaring in Parliament that “the people of Lincolnshire know what is best for the people of Lincolnshire”, Matt Warman MP yesterday welcomed an update from Local Government Minister James Wharton that the county’s devolution bid is progressing well.

In September, organisations in Greater Lincolnshire submitted an expression of interest to the Government for ambitious plans to bring more local power and responsibility to the area. The proposals, from groups including the County Council and district councils, Lincolnshire Police and NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups, ask for a range of powers and associated funding to be devolved to Lincolnshire.

During Department for Communities and Local Government Questions in the Commons yesterday, Matt asked the Minister for an update on the progress of the bid, who confirmed that discussions are going well, and will include the issues of skills, transport, housing and water management. James Wharton said that he hopes the talks will conclude successfully and that a long-lasting deal will be reached. He also confirmed that the Government supports devolution, and believes that each deal should recognise that areas are different, and that local people know what they need to drive economic improvement for the local community.

Following the session, Matt said, “Local people have the best understanding of what their area needs, so I very much welcome the proposals to bring more powers back to our region. I was pleased to receive a positive update from the Minister and I hope that discussions on the particulars of the bid for Lincolnshire will reach a successful conclusion shortly. I look forward to working with all the local groups involved to make it happen.”

• Matt’s question can be found via the following link: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201516/cmhansrd/cm151214/debtext/151214-0001.htm#15121426000509
• Greater Lincolnshire’s devolution proposals can be found via the following link: http://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/home/greater-lincolnshire-proposals-for-devolved-powers-from-government/127203.article