Former Labour Adviser Mike Buckley says meaningful devolution requires central government to transfer real fiscal power and responsibility to local and regional leaders. https://t.co/qY9a6QNScX News Analysis & Summary In a pointed critique of the current devolution settlement, former Labour adviser Mike Buckley argues that meaningful local empowerment cannot exist without a genuine transfer of fiscal authority from Whitehall to regional and local leaders. According to Buckley, the present model leaves councils and combined authorities as mere administrators of centrally dictated budgets, stripped of the ability to raise revenue, set tax rates, or prioritize spending according to local needs. He contends that real devolution requires the UK government to hand over substantial control over taxation, borrowing, and long-term investment decisions, paired with full accountability for outcomes. My own view aligns strongly with Buckley's position. Without fiscal teeth, devolution becomes a hollow slogana way for Westminster to offload responsibility while retaining control. Local leaders know their communities' challenges best, but they are hamstrung by short-term grants and rigid spending rules. True fiscal devolution would also foster healthier democratic engagement, as citizens could see a direct link between local taxes and local services. However, safeguards are needed to prevent a race to the bottom in tax rates or public services. Ultimately, Buckley's call is not just about policy mechanics; it is about rebalancing power and trust between the centre and the periphery. Source: @AlArabiya_Eng on X/TwitterPublic Engagement Views: 2,676 Published: July 18, 2026, 12:15 am
