The Cabinet of Oxfordshire Council met on Thursday 9 January 2025 to discuss the Government's Devolution White Paper and agree a response. The meeting also included a session for petitions and public address.

Devolution White Paper and Local Government Reorganisation

The Cabinet agreed to approve its response to the Government's Devolution White Paper, which proposes significant reforms to local government in England. The White Paper aims to advance the English devolution agenda, enabling councils to collaborate more formally through Combined Authorities to foster economic growth.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, introduced the report, acknowledging the work of Helen Mitchell, Head of Public Affairs and Strategy, and other officers. Councillor Leffman expressed that Oxfordshire was not yet in a position to join the Devolution priority programme, citing the need for further discussions with neighbouring authorities regarding proposals for a strategic combined authority and local government reorganisation.

The Cabinet heard from various speakers, including members of the public and leaders of Oxfordshire's district councils. Key points raised included the importance of progressing devolution and reorganisation, with suggestions for a broader geography for a mayoral combined authority and enhanced devolved economic powers for the South East of England. Concerns were voiced about the drawbacks of the current two-tier local government system and the use of Growth Deal funds for the Oxpens Bridge project. Some District Council Leaders advocated for prioritising the establishment of a combined strategic authority before detailed discussions on structural reform. One County Council member expressed apprehension regarding the pace of proposals, the perceived lack of consultation, and the potential risks associated with introducing large unitary authorities. Another speaker provided historical context on previous reorganisation attempts in Oxfordshire and supported the report's recommendations, emphasising transparency.

Following discussions, the Cabinet resolved to:

• Note the publication of the Devolution White Paper and its potential impact on Oxfordshire County Council and local government in Oxfordshire.
• Agree the response to the Government, to be issued by 10 January 2025.
• Request that the Government places Oxfordshire into a 'fast track' programme to advance local government reorganisation ambitions and to continue collaborating with partners on a future Mayoral Strategic Authority.
• Express significant concerns to the Government regarding the potential postponement of ordinary elections in May 2025, but indicate acceptance of a postponement if it commits to the most ambitious timescale for elections to a new shadow Council/Councils in May 2026.

The meeting also noted apologies for absence from Councillors Kate Gregory and Dr Nathan Ley, and confirmed there were no declarations of interest. A session for petitions and public address was held, with several individuals and council leaders speaking on the devolution agenda.