Views sought on powers of cities’ elected mayors

The Government has launched a consultation to consider what powers to invest in elected mayors in people in Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield and Wakefield vote in favour of the change.

An elected mayor would automatically be given the same powers as those currently wielded by the council’s executive, but the Government will also consider whether they should be given extra control over areas such as transport, housing or regeneration.

Referendums are currently due to take place in the four Yorkshire cities – and seven of England’s other largest urban areas – next year, although Ministers have admitted they are considering whether to delay the vote in some of them.

Cities Minister Greg Clark said: “English cities aren’t just home to millions of people, they are cultural powerhouses and economic dynamos. Cities will play a crucial role in driving and sustaining our economic recovery, and I will do everything in my power to help them thrive. Evidence from London and beyond shows the difference elected mayors can make. They can provide strong and visible leadership, and take the tough decisions needed to attract jobs and investment for the future.

“Every city has its own unique needs, identity and character. There’s no such thing as a ‘one size fits all’ mayor – they should be able to do whatever it takes to get to grips with the local challenges and help their city flourish.

“That’s why I’m asking the people who live and work in our 12 largest cities – what could a mayor do for you?”

With Ken Livingstone and Boris Johnson being seen as having reinvigorated the capital since London was given an elected Mayor, Ministers are keen for other English cities to be given strong leadership in a similar way.

The Tories pledged referenda in England’s 12 largest cities – according to local authority population size – in their manifesto and the Liberal Democrats agreed to the idea despite many of their MPs disliking it.

Leicester has since voted in favour and installed an elected mayor, leaving referenda to take place in 11 other cities. They were initially all due to take place next May, but Lord Adonis of the Institute for Government has since suggested holding ones in Leeds, Bristol and Birmingham first, with the others taking place in 2013 and Ministers are considering that idea.

Councils, business leaders and other public sector organisations will be invited to suggest what powers they think elected mayors should be given in their city, but Ministers are also keen for ordinary residents to have their say in the 12-week consultation.

They are also being asked how the mayors should be subject to local scrutiny to ensure they are accountable.