🌱 East Midlands: Local Authorities and Economic Growth

• Economic Importance of Local Councils: Michael Payne highlighted the crucial role of local councils in driving economic growth in the East Midlands. He stressed that growth is essential for funding public services and that the region has suffered from a lack of investment and regional disparities under previous Conservative management.

• Investment and Growth Initiatives: The Labour Government has initiated several projects to boost the East Midlands economy. This includes £200 million for transport, £160 million for an investment zone, and funding for 1,400 new homes. The East Midlands Freeport at the airport is expected to unlock nearly £1 billion in growth and investment.

• Devolution and Local Leadership: There was a strong call for further devolution to empower regional mayors like Claire Ward, the Labour Mayor of the East Midlands. Devolution is seen as a way to address local issues more effectively and drive economic growth.

• Challenges with Local Government: Concerns were raised about the performance of Conservative-run councils, particularly in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, with issues like poor road maintenance and delays in education services affecting economic growth and residents’ lives.

• Successful Local Initiatives: Labour-run Gedling Borough Council was praised for its efforts in boosting the local economy through initiatives like free parking, park development, and theatre refurbishment.

• Transport Issues: Natalie Fleet from Bolsover highlighted the severe transport issues in her area, with 80% of residents facing transport-related social exclusion, which hampers economic growth and daily life.

• Government’s Plan for Neighbourhoods: The Government announced a £1.5 billion programme to revitalise local communities, with the East Midlands receiving significant funding for long-term investment in areas like Boston, Skegness, and Nottinghamshire.

• Green Energy and Housing: The Government is investing in clean energy, with a £410 million investment in a fusion energy plant in Nottinghamshire, and nearly £17 million for housing developments on brownfield sites in the region.

• Regeneration Projects: Significant regeneration projects were mentioned, such as the Broad Marsh site in Nottingham, which will create homes, jobs, and community spaces, and various projects in Derby aimed at transforming the city.

• Future of Local Government: There was a discussion on the potential reorganisation of local government to streamline services and improve efficiency, with an emphasis on involving local communities in decision-making processes.

• Overall Optimism: The debate concluded with optimism about the future of the East Midlands, focusing on the region’s potential and the importance of local leadership in driving economic growth and community development.

The session displays a moderate level of disagreement, primarily centered around political and regional issues, but the overall tone remains relatively civil and focused on constructive dialogue. Here are the key points of disagreement and their analysis:

1. Political Disagreement on Investment and Management: Michael Payne criticizes the previous Conservative government for mismanagement and lack of investment in the East Midlands, stating that the region has been ‘levelled down’. This is a clear point of contention, as it directly challenges the policies and effectiveness of the Conservative party. However, the disagreement is more of a political critique rather than a personal attack, and it is presented in a factual manner.

   Example: “The east midlands has been at the forefront of that decline, as a result of Conservative mismanagement.”

2. Debate on Devolution and Local Governance: There is a disagreement on the approach to devolution and local governance. Andrew Rosindell expresses caution about regional mayors, suggesting that local authorities should retain more power. In contrast, Michael Payne and other Labour MPs advocate for more devolution to regional mayors, arguing that it would enhance economic growth. This disagreement is significant but is discussed in a policy-oriented manner, with both sides presenting their views without escalating into personal conflict.

   Example: Andrew Rosindell: “I caution him slightly about wanting a regional mayor to take power upwards.” Michael Payne: “I thank the hon. Member for sharing his view with me, but I must say that it is not a view we share in the east midlands.”

3. Criticism of Local Council Performance: There is a notable disagreement on the performance of local councils, particularly between Labour and Conservative-run councils. Michael Payne criticizes the Conservative-run Nottinghamshire county council for poor road maintenance and delays in education services, while praising Labour-run Gedling borough council. This disagreement is more pointed, but it remains within the realm of policy critique and local governance performance.

   Example: “Conservative-controlled Nottinghamshire county council might be the worst council in the country for road repairs.”

4. Support for Freeports: Jim Shannon highlights the potential of freeports for economic growth and expresses disappointment over the lack of a freeport in Northern Ireland. Michael Payne acknowledges the positive impact of the freeport at East Midlands airport but does not engage in a direct disagreement. This shows a minor point of contention but is handled with acknowledgment and respect.

   Example: Jim Shannon: “Does the hon. Gentleman agree that it would be great if the current Government would designate a freeport for Northern Ireland?” Michael Payne: “The hon. Gentleman is right to pay testament to the Chancellor and the Labour Mayor of the East Midlands.”

Overall, while there are clear disagreements, they are primarily focused on policy and governance issues rather than personal attacks or heated exchanges. The session maintains a level of respect and focuses on constructive criticism and policy advocacy, which justifies a rating of 2 for disagreement.