‘English votes for English laws’ proposal

The welcome outcome of the Scottish independence referendum has prompted serious questions about the degree of devolution in our governmental system, and I was glad to have the opportunity to put my views across.

In my view, we need to deliver on the promises we made, but any change in our settlement needs to be fair to all parts of the UK. In particular, I welcome the opportunity to examine the question of “English votes for English laws”.

The make-up of Parliament means the Scottish MPs hold the balance of power only in extreme circumstances, but it is principally right that, now Scotland will receive greater control of its taxation, spending and welfare, we should examine voting rights on these matters where they affect England alone. To me, this is a logical step in return for greater powers for Scotland.

I find it remarkable that the Labour leader was asked 13 times if only English MPs should vote on laws affecting England and he simply could not answer the question.

Some have argued we should go much further and are calling for wholesale decentralisation to the regions, or for a separate English parliament. I favour devolving power to a local level so decisions can be made by those who know their areas best.

However, when expensive regional bodies had control of the planning system under the previous government, this took power away from local people: devolution should not be about arbitrary redistribution but practical steps that enable our cities and regions to grow.

Local councils now have responsibility for raising 20 per cent more of their income locally, rather than simply asking central government for it.

The Chancellor has said that in November he will set out ideas for a major transfer of powers to cities in the north too, but this model of government must allow rural areas in the south to receive similar extended freedoms.

It is important that any proposals are indeed fair to all, and I look forward to scrutinising them.