Scotland's regions should have greater autonomy to boost economic performance
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Greater regional autonomy would benefit the economy by developing strategic objectives quicker according to the Regional Economic Policy Review.
This latest call for power to be decentralised from Holyrood was made by the review led by Stirling University’s Professor David Bell and Professor John Bachtler of the University of Strathclyde.
It suggests a more entrepreneurial approach to working with the private sector and “allowing more decision-making at a regional level on strategic priorities and how to deliver them”.
It is hoped that will lead to work done at greater pace while establishing intelligence hubs to develop regional expertise and analysis to assist decision-making and reducing the need for paid consultants.
The review also calls for reducing duplication and simplifying funding sources, including from the UK and Scottish governments, to enable more strategic use of investment.
Prof Bachtler said: “In addition to setting out what the future delivery of regional economic development in Scotland could look like, the review also examines how other countries use their regions to contribute to a wellbeing economy, allowing the Scottish Government to learn from best practice.
“The European Policies Research Centre has provided a wealth of evidence where regional scales offer economic opportunity, and Regional Economic Partnership Advisory Group is pleased that Scottish ministers have embraced this approach with such enthusiasm.”
Business minister Ivan McKee said: “We need to ensure they can act quickly and decisively to deliver economic growth and these recommendations will help do that. While clear accountability and robust safeguards are required when deploying public funds, there is a balance to be struck which achieves that while enabling partnerships to move at a pace that brings confidence to the private sector.”
