Today the Yorkshire Post front page splash by Mason Boycott-Owen focused on what next for #Devo, and how Yorkshire can benefit from the freedoms already granted to Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the West Midlands Combined Authority by applying for Level 4 in the newly confirmed framework.
Our view at The Northern Powerhouse Partnership which I shared for the story is that moving to next level in devolution framework, at least for South and West Yorkshire, is a credible aim for this government to achieve by the next General Election.
However, Metro Mayors will still need further powers over tax and spending decisions. The work with Open Innovations from earlier this year outlined a deliverable blueprint for local leaders to retain revenue from taxes such as national insurance, with a fairer transfer mechanism in place to help less well-off parts of the country pay for key day to day services.
Lastly, it does not make sense that areas like Yorkshire are still not easily able to implement a £1 charge on overnight stays. That money would be put to good use in promoting the hospitality sector and ensuring our infrastructure can cope with the millions of tourists that visit this great county each year.
Our analysis with Open Innovations found that a £1 levy on overnight hotel stays could raise £428 million per year for English councils, including £37.9m for Yorkshire.
This weekends editorial is one I can only endorse in full, and is absolutely right focus for what can get done next now 100% of Yorkshire and the Humber has secured #Devo with a #MetroMayor.
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