Source · Select Committees · Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee
Recommendation 13
13
The devolution of the adult education budget should be part of the devolution framework, accompanied...
Recommendation
The devolution of the adult education budget should be part of the devolution framework, accompanied by transitional support and measures to mitigate differences in course options between areas. The same powers over adult education should be available to all areas with devolution deals. Further education, in particular FE colleges, should also be included in the framework. The Government should work with the Local Government Association to agree proposals as to how local authorities’ oversight of schools and their funding should be strengthened. This should include devolving the functions of the Education and Skills Funding Agency to county councils and combined authorities; and the transfer of the powers held by Regional School Commissioners to local authorities. (Paragraph 108) Progress on devolution in England 65
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Devolution Framework identifies that areas which agree to Level 2 or Level 3 devolution deals will typically get Homes England compulsory purchase powers, to be held concurrently with Homes England. Level 3 (mayoral) devolution deal will also typically be able to establish Mayoral Development Corporations. Decisions on what planning powers devolved areas could receive including strategic infrastructure levies will be addressed through forthcoming changes to the planning system’. The Government recognises that devolution is a process, not a one-off event. While the initial trailblazers for deeper devolution are with West Midlands and Greater Manchester, Government plans to deepen the devolution settlements of all the most mature institutions, to support them in delivering further benefits for local residents. The Government notes that London already has substantially more housing and planning powers than other parts of the country. As referenced in our response to recommendation 11, Government will set out a plan for streamlining the funding landscape which will include a commitment to help stakeholders navigate funding opportunities.