HC Deb 17 November 2003 vol 413 c533W
Mr. Hammond

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what assessment he has made of whether the proposed referendums on elected regional assemblies give people living in the regions affected an opportunity for their regions to have similar powers to those of(a) the Scottish Parliament and (b) the Welsh Assembly. [139126]

Mr. Raynsford

Elected assemblies will be given powers over key regional issues, such as jobs, planning, housing, transport, culture and economic development. The Regional Governance White Paper, "Your Region, Your Choice: Revitalising the English Regions", sets out the Government's proposals and takes into account the functions that are best dealt with at a national, regional or local level. As the proposals relate to the English regions, the powers of the Greater London Authority are also a relevant consideration.

There are no plans to revisit the package as a matter of course, but there may be changes in the way some central Government functions are delivered. In developing policies, the Government will consider the opportunities offered by the creation of elected assemblies. For example, the Fire White Paper, "Our Fire and Rescue Service", announced that regional fire and rescue authorities will be established in those regions that choose to have elected assemblies.