My latest monthly report to St Enoder Parish Council

At tonight’s meeting of St Enoder Parish Council, I will be presenting my latest monthly report. It covers the period 22nd June – 21st July 2015. It is as follows:

1. Council meetings

I have attended a range of formal meetings over the last month. These included: Full Council (2), Cabinet, Central Sub-Area Planning Committee, Communities Policy Advisory Committee (PAC), an informal Planning PAC and two associated pre-agenda/preparatory meetings, a meeting of PAC Chairmen and key officers, Constitution and Governance Committee, Informal Planning and Development Improvement Group, Appointment of Chief Officers Panel, Group Leaders’ meeting, and two briefings on the Council’s “Case for Cornwall,”

In addition to the formal meetings listed above, I have had numerous meetings with council officers and others to discuss a range of issues. Some of these are referenced below.

2. Other meetings

I have also attended meetings of the Indian Queens Pit Association, the Executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Rural Partnership, and the South & East Cornwall Local Action Group.

3. Penare Pig Farm, Higher Fraddon and associated AD plant

The most recent meeting of the Higher Fraddon Community Forum took place on 8th July. The minutes of the meeting will soon be available.

I am continuing to liaise with a range of individuals about the planning applications, the ongoing concerns about traffic movements and smells, etc.

Recent developments since last month’s report include the following:

(i) It has been confirmed that a contract has been signed between the pig farm and the biogas plant. It specifies that the plant will take up to 7,000 tonnes of pig slurry per annum (ie. all the material produced at the farm), but there has been a build-up of slurry at the farm over the past six months, which is excess to its immediate requirements. The farm has started to remove this backlog, which it is estimated will equate to 175 tractor movements.

(ii) Smell has been an increasing problem from both the pig farm and biogas plant. At the July Forum meeting, representatives of the pig farm stated that they were planning to change the diet of the pigs to reduce ammonia and therefore smells. They also stated that they would be willing to construct a bio-filter – or equivalent – to further reduce odour.

(iii) I have formally requested that Cornwall Council look in detail at whether the developments at Higher Fraddon would increase the possibility of flooding in Fraddon.

It is still the case that Cornwall Council intends to deal with the three applications at the same meeting of the Strategic Planning Committee.

4. Planning

I have been actively involved with a large number of ongoing applications. Listed below are a few examples, though this list is by no means exhaustive:

- Land west of Kilburn, Fraddon (PA14/00882)

In my last monthly report, I reported how I had written a detailed letter of complaint about how this development has been handled. In spite of my continuing opposition to the proposal, the outline consent has been issued. I can also report that I have yet to receive a formal response to my complaint.

- Wind turbine at Goonhoskyn (PA14/10808)

The application for a wind turbine at Goonhoskyn has been de-registered because the applicant had not followed the appropriate guidance on pre-application consultation.

- Large garage / store at Linton Rise, Summercourt (PA14/10939)

This application was considered at a meeting of Cornwall Council’s Central Sub-Area Planning Committee on July 6th. The application was refused because of the size and bulk of the proposed structure, but there was considerable sympathy for the applicants. Councillors suggested that I liaise with the applicants to produce a revised application for a less substantial building.

- Five dwellings near Manor Drive, Fraddon (PA15/00763)

Last month I reported that, following objections from St Enoder Parish Council, the above application had been referred to Cornwall Council’s Central Sub-Area Planning Committee. I have been informed that there has been further negotiation between the application and the Council, but I still do not consider the application to be policy compliant.

- Laburnum Cottage; planning appeal (PA14/09872)

As requested at the last meeting, I produced a statement on behalf of the Parish Council, setting out opposition to the proposal to allow unrestricted occupancy of the annexe as a separate dwelling. It has been forwarded to the Planning Inspectorate.

5. Bus depot in Summercourt

Since Western Greyhound ceased trading, I have been in regular contact with staff at the Council's “passenger unit,” concerning the fact that First’s service between Truro and Newquay does not stop in Summercourt. I have received numerous representations from local people on this matter and I have brought them to the attention of the unitary authority. Summercourt Travel has slightly increased the number of trips through its 497 service (to Truro via Ladock).

I can report now that First have purchased the former Western Greyhound yard off St Austell Street and I am presently seeking a meeting with the Managing Director of the bus company to find out more about his plans for the site.

6. The Kelliers

On 16th July, I met with Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for the transfer of assets, Jeremy Rowe, and a senior member of the Property Team. I formally requested that the freehold of The Kelliers be transferred to St Enoder Parish Council, instead of being leased as previously agreed following the refusal of the unitary authority to honour the arrangement with the former Restormel Borough Council.

I can report that I received a fair hearing and I am cautiously optimistic that we could be successful.

7. Open space at Lindsay Fields

I am pleased to report that, following representations I have made, Cornwall Council is liaising with the developer of Lindsay Fields in Fraddon about the adoption of the open space to the rear of the most recent development within the estate. The Council has set out a list of outstanding works that the developer will need to undertake prior to it taking responsibility for the land.

8. Open space at Fairview Park

I have also been continuing to put pressure on Cornwall Council to finalise the details of how we transfer this area of land into the ownership of Cornwall Council as previously agreed.

9. Full Council: 14th July

At this special meeting, the majority of members backed “The Case for Cornwall,” which sought additional freedoms and flexibilities for the unitary authority.

In previous meetings, I argued for the document to be much more ambitious but I was unsuccessful. I did vote to support the document, but made it clear that it did not go far enough.

The document is a mixed bag. It seeks some devolution of political and economic powers to Cornwall, alongside greater integration of the National Health Service and social care – not a devolution as such – and included specific requests for additional funding in certain areas.

At the same meeting, councillors were informed about the “Devolution Deal” that central government were willing to sanction. This was formally announced on 16th July and the headline announcements are that (i) Cornwall Council will have new powers to franchise bus services in the area; (ii) Cornwall Council will work with local health organisations on a plan for integrating health and social care services, (iii) Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly will be given Intermediate Body status to allow some more localised control over EU funding, and (iv) the Local Enterprise Partnership will be given “more say on boosting local skills levels” and the ability to “integrate national and local business support services.”

From my perspective, it is not “democratic” devolution to give more influence to unelected bodies with limited democratic legitimacy such as the Local Enterprise Partnership, and it is also extremely disappointing that Cornwall has failed to secure any new powers over planning or housing.

10. Communities PAC

I attended a meeting of the above committee on 17th July, and spoke in the debate about the proposed out-sourcing of libraries and one-stop services for the Council. Along with a number of members, I raised concerns about the proposal and it was referred back for more work to be done and alternatives explored.

11. Inquiries

During the last month, I have also helped numerous people and local organisations with advice and guidance on a wide range of issues.

No to cuts; fair funding for Cornwall needed

My article in tomorrow’s Cornish Guardian will be as follows:

The new Conservative Government has launched a new spending review with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, announcing plans for another £20 billion of cuts to public services across the UK.

Osborne has demanded that all his ministers – other than those responsible for protected areas such as schools and health – investigate cuts of up to 40% by 2020.

Such deep cuts will be extremely bad news for Cornwall.

Take local government as an example. It is struggling to maintain those services that people have a right to expect, and the unitary authority has already “anticipated” and planned for further cuts of over 30%. The damage being caused is palpable, whereas the impact of additional cuts cannot be over emphasised.

And yet, at the same time that George Osborne is planning to “slash,” the Government is failing to properly address the historic and ongoing under-funding of public services in Cornwall.

This is disgraceful. And it is so bad that the Tory Police Commissioner for Cornwall and Devon, Tony Hogg, has even had to set up a petition to demand “fair funding” for the local police service from his own government!

Over the last few years, funding for the “Devon and Cornwall” Constabulary has been slashed by over £50 million. Hundreds of police officers and civilian support staff have lost their jobs, public desks at local police stations have been closed, and some stations – such as the one at St Blazey – are under threat of closure.

Mr Hogg is right to bring attention to how we receive “less government funding than other police areas,” with the residents of Cornwall and Devon paying “39% of the local policing bill through the council tax.” The comparable figure is so much lower elsewhere, for example, in Merseyside (17%), Greater Manchester (22%) and London (27%) – which receive higher levels of central government funding.

Commissioner Hogg estimates that his Constabulary misses out on £12 million each year.

He has also brought attention to how the Metropolitan Police gets “additional millions to take account of the daily influx of commuters,” whereas “no account” is taken of the “tourist influx” into Cornwall and Devon, or indeed the greater cost of policing in rural areas.

What a contrast between the Westminster rhetoric of the Conservative Party, and the consequences of their actions.

Join MK in demanding a “Cornish” tickbox on 2021 census

Mebyon Kernow – the Party for Cornwall (MK) is encouraging people to respond to an Office of National Statistics (ONS) consultation about the content of the 2021 census, and to demand a “Cornish” tickbox.

The initial view of the Office of National Statistics (ONS) is that questions on ethnicity and national identity should be included in the 2021 census, but would be unaltered from the last census when there was not a “Cornish tickbox.”

Join us in putting pressure on the ONS.

“The 2021 Census – Initial view on content for England and Wales” consultation lasts until 27th August 2015.

Further information can be found at: https://consultations.ons.gov.uk/census/2021-census-topics-consultation

Responses can also be sent to: The 2021 Census – Initial view on content for England and Wales, Office of National Statistics, Room 4300E, Segensworth Road, Titchfield , PO15 5RR ; or via 2021census.consultation@ons.gov.uk.

Mebyon Kernow demands “Cornish” tickbox on 2021 census

On behalf of Mebyon Kernow – the Party for Cornwall, I have responded to an Office of National Statistics (ONS) consultation about the content of the 2021 census.

The representation was as follows:

“The 2021 Census – Initial view on content for England and Wales” – consultation

I am writing on behalf of Mebyon Kernow – the Party for Cornwall (MK) concerning the above consultation. In particular, we wish to focus our representations on the initial view of the Office of National Statistics (ONS) on the questions relating to ethnicity and national identity; namely that they be included, unaltered, in the 2021 census.

MK is extremely disappointed that the ONS has failed to include the option of Cornish within the relevant tickboxes, even through the Cornish were recognised as a national minority through the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities in April 2014.

The ONS will recall that the Government, in making the announcement, stated:

“The decision to recognise the unique identity of the Cornish, now affords them the same status under the European Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities as the UK’s other Celtic people, the Scots, the Welsh and the Irish.”

This was a landmark ruling, which it would be unjust and illogical for the ONS to ignore. It is clear to us that the ethnicity and national identity questions on the 2021 census must therefore treat the Cornish in the same manner as the “UK’s other Celtic people, the Scots, the Welsh and the Irish.”

National identity

In the 2011 census, question 15: “how would you describe your national identity?” there were six tickboxes: “English,” “Welsh,” “Scottish,” “Northern Irish,” “British,” and “Other, write in …” It is our view that, now the Cornish are recognised as a national minority, the question on national identity in the 2021 census should include a tickbox for “Cornish.”

Ethnicity

In the 2011 census, question 16: “what is your ethnic group?” included the option of “English / Welsh / Scottish / Northern Irish / British.” It is our view that, now the Cornish are recognised as a national minority, the question on ethnicity in the 2021 census should also acknowledge those individuals who wish to record their identity as Cornish.

MK would further add that in the 2011 census a total of 83,499 people from across Cornwall, England and Wales, used “write in” options to self-identify as Cornish. Within Cornwall itself, 73,200 people described themselves as Cornish on the form, equating to 13.8% of the population. This is comparable in statistical terms to the 14% of people in Wales who wrote-in Welsh in the 2001 census, prior to the inclusion of a “Welsh” tickbox in 2011.

It is our view that the case for a tickbox for “Cornish” is overwhelming. It would provide parity between all national minorities within the United Kingdom and give greater value to the overall statistics.

Cornish language

Mebyon Kernow notes that the ONS is also stating that, in Wales, it intends to collect information on the usage of the Welsh language. We are disappointed that there are no proposals to include a question on the usage of the Cornish language in Cornwall.

We would point out that the Cornish language is protected through the auspices of the Charter for the Protection of Regional and Minority Languages, and it would therefore be illogical not to collect data relating to the language.

Further information

We believe that the points we have raised need to be addressed and would be willing to arrange a delegation to meet with representatives of the ONS to discuss the issues in more detail.

Good luck to Zoe Fox and Julia Prosser in Camborne Pendarves

Mebyon Kernow – the Party for Cornwall is standing in the two Camborne Pendarves by-elections, which will take place on August 20th.

Long-standing town councillor Zoe Fox is MK’s candidate for the vacancy on Cornwall Council, while Julia Prosser is standing for a town council vacancy for the same area



Zoe (above) is a mother of two adult children and a hands-on councillor, who understands the needs of local people and she has worked with a wide range of organisations and charities on their behalf. She has helped young people into education and employment, supported disabled people, and assisted families struggling to get by on low wages. Zoe has taken a lead in environmental and community issues and is proud to the allotments representative in Camborne.

Julia (above) is a former nurse, who has raised a family of three sons and one daughter, who all live locally with their families. She now owns and runs the Station Café at Camborne train station. More than just a café, it serves as a community meeting place for local people and groups. Julia is proud to live in Camborne and in her spare time, she volunteers with the “Live at Home” scheme, which supports older people to remain independent in their own homes.

If anyone would like to help out with the election campaign, please contact Cllr Loveday Jenkin on 01209 831517 or Cllr Zoe Fox on 01209 711791.

Cornish Nation magazine no. 70

Mebyon Kernow has just published its latest edition of Cornish Nation magazine, which is presently being sent out to all party members.

It includes features about MK’s opposition to the proposed “eco-community” development in Clay Country, a summary of the General Election campaign, a tribute to Joy Stevenson and much more.

Anyone who would like a complimentary copy of the magazine – either as a pdf or in hard copy – can request one from me at dickcole@btinternet.com.

My Cornish Guardian column: the "Devolution Deal"

In this week’s Cornish Guardian, my article will be on the “Devolution Deal.” It includes material from recent blogs, but is posted here for completeness. It will be as follows:

It is to be welcomed that central government has recognised the long-standing demands from Cornwall for devolution.

But that said, I am extremely disappointed at the extent of what has been proposed through the “Cornwall Devolution Deal,” which was officially announced by central government on Thursday.

It does not go far enough, and it could have been so much more ambitious.

The official government statement claimed that it seeks to end the “hoarding of power in Whitehall” and describes the “Cornwall Deal” as “historic.”

This is simply not true - the reality is that the “Deal” pales in comparison to the devolution enjoyed in Scotland and Wales. Indeed, central government has also stated that it is just the “first of many devolution deals for counties.”

The agreement of the “Deal” was also top-down, and it was ridiculous that councillors were only shown the document at a Council meeting last Tuesday. And it was even more ridiculous that the Government dictated that the meeting had to be held behind closed doors.

The headline announcements are that (i) Cornwall Council will have new powers to franchise bus services in the area; (ii) Cornwall Council will work with local health organisations on a plan for integrating health and social care services, (iii) Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly will be given Intermediate Body status to allow some more localised control over EU funding, and (iv) the Local Enterprise Partnership will be given “more say on boosting local skills levels” and the ability to “integrate national and local business support services.”

From my perspective, it is not “democratic” devolution to give more influence to unelected bodies with limited democratic legitimacy such as the Local Enterprise Partnership, and it is also extremely disappointing that Cornwall has failed to secure any new powers over planning or housing.

But the Government has also stated that it will consider “proposals put forward on devolving more powers in the future” if a “strong case” is made.

I believe we need to take the Government at its word on this, and it as a challenge. We need to build on the “Deal;” to ensure that a limited amount of power given to “local government” does not act as a logjam for further devolution; and we need to construct a powerful public campaign for a powerful Cornish Assembly with full democratic control over the whole of the public sector in Cornwall.

The “Cornwall Devolution Deal” has been published

The “Cornwall Devolution Deal” or “Kevambos Digresennans Kernow” has been published today. It was formally signed off yesterday; see below for picture of the “great and the good” and the poised pens.
 

The full document itself can be accessed below:

http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/media/13409340/20150715-cornwall-devolution-deal-final-reformatted-pdf.pdf

It has been modified slightly from the “confidential” Cornwall Council meeting on Tuesday, though certain suggested changes have not been actioned.

Media coverage - updated

It has been quite a busy day for me and I have done a number of media interviews, commenting on the content of the “Devolution Deal.” This has included Pirate FM and the Radio Cornwall phone-in between 12.00 and 1.00.

I have also done interviews for tonight’s BBC Spotlight and ITV Westcountry programmes.

The Spotlight programme can be viewed at:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b061sx62/spotlight-16072015

Mebyon Kernow comment on "Devolution Deal"

Mebyon Kernow has released the following press statement, following the Government's official announcement about the "Devolution Deal."

Mebyon Kernow repeats demand for far-reaching devolution for Cornwall

Following the official announcement of the “Cornwall Devolution Deal” by central government, Mebyon Kernow has declared that the “Deal” does not go far enough and re-iterated its call for a National Assembly for Cornwall.

The leader of Mebyon Kernow Cllr Dick Cole stated:

“Mebyon Kernow is campaigning for a truly ambitious democratic settlement for Cornwall, which should include a Cornish Assembly.

“Obviously, it is to be welcomed that central government has recognised the long-standing demands from Cornwall for devolution and has agreed a ‘Devolution Deal.’ But we are disappointed at the extent of what has been proposed – it could be so much more ambitious.

“The Government claims that it seeks to end the ‘hoarding of power in Whitehall’ and describes the Cornwall ‘Deal’ as ‘historic.’ The reality is that it pales in comparison to what devolution means in Scotland and Wales.”

The central government press release states that the “Deal” will:

- Give Cornwall Council powers for franchising and improving bus services in the area – the first rural unitary authority to gain this power;
- Give the Local Enterprise Partnership more say on boosting local skills levels;
- Give the council powers to select the projects, working with partners, it wants to see benefiting from millions of pounds of inward investment funding;
- Make it easier for the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership to integrate national and local business support services to help local firms grow;
- Enable Cornwall Council and the Council of the Isles of Scilly to work with local health organisations on a plan for integrating health and social care services.

Cllr Cole added:

“MK members are particularly worried at the growing influence of unelected and unaccountable entities – such as the Local enterprise Partnership – which have limited democratic legitimacy but nonetheless dominate the ‘Deal.’

“The ‘Deal’ could and should be so much ambitious for Cornwall, but the Government claims it will consider ‘proposals put forward on devolving more powers in the future.’

“We need to take the Government at its word on this. We need to build on the ‘Deal’ and to construct a powerful public campaign for a powerful Cornish Assembly with full democratic control over the whole of the public sector in Cornwall.”

Cornwall Council press release on "Devolution Deal"

Cornwall Council has released a press release about the “Devolution Deal” which has been agreed with Cornwall Council. The full and unaltered text of the statement is as follows:

The Leader of Cornwall Council John Pollard has joined with the Chairman of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership Chris Pomfret and Dr Iain Chorlton, Chair of NHS Kernow Clinical Commissioning Group, to welcome the official signing of the Cornwall Devolution Deal.

Cornwall is the first rural authority in the country to be offered a devolution deal, with Communities Secretary Greg Clark and Prime Minister David Cameron travelling to Cornwall to support the signing of the formal agreement.

“This Devolution Deal is brilliant news for Cornwall” said Council Leader John Pollard. “We were early in recognising the growing momentum of the national agenda for devolving powers from Westminster and, by creating a Case for Cornwall which was strong and realistic, we have had a positive response from the Government. Cornwall is, therefore, the first rural authority in the country to be given a devolution deal. This gives Cornwall greater powers over public sector funding “.

“This is the first stage of a longer journey towards delivering the full Case for Cornwall. We will now be working with partners to develop an integrated health and social care system, and deliver significant economic growth, with enhanced business support, greater access to employment and training opportunities, together with a much improved public transport network and more efficient use of public sector buildings.”

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “At the heart of this One Nation Government is the belief that everyone, no matter what their background or where they’re from, has the opportunity to get on in life. 

“This devolution deal marks a major shift for the people who live and work in Cornwall – putting power in their hands and giving them the tools to take charge and make the most of the fantastic potential that Cornwall holds. “

Under the terms of the Deal, which is based on the proposals set out in the Case for Cornwall which were formally agreed by the full Council on Tuesday, Cornwall will have greater powers over areas of public spending which are currently controlled by London.

Chris Pomfret, Chairman of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, said: "This is a tremendous achievement for Cornwall. We look forward to the LEP playing its role in supporting Cornwall Council to achieve economic growth through the many opportunities that this deal creates, including greater flexibility with employment and skills which remain a top priority for the LEP."

Dr Iain Chorlton, Chairman at NHS Kernow, said “This is a significant milestone as we work towards our shared ambition of integrating health and social care, empowering local communities to have greater ownership of decisions and resources, tailored to local needs.

“Our innovative approaches in integrating health and social care are already making a difference to people’s lives – and today’s announcement could enable more resources to focus directly on local patient care and outcomes.”

The Deal covers a range of key areas including transport, employment and skills, EU funding, business support, energy, health and social care, public estate, heritage and culture, with a number of exciting “firsts” for Cornwall.

These include the proposals for transport, which will see the Council become the first rural authority in the country to be given powers to franchise bus services. The Government has also agreed to devolve central funding on local transport. This will deliver around £50m to create an integrated public transport system with smart ticketing, and fares and timetables for combined travel between bus, rail and ferry services.

The Government has also agreed to work with partners in Cornwall to transform health and social care services. This will involve NHS Kernow, Cornwall Council, the Council of the Isles of Scilly, and other local partners working with NHS England and other local partners to develop a business plan to move progressively towards the integration of health and social care.

Other areas include an agreement on EU funding which will see Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly given Intermediate Body (IB) status. This will mean decisions on allocating €603.7m of European funding to projects will now be made locally rather than at Westminster.

The Government has also agreed to work with agencies in Cornwall on a number of proposals to improve employment and skills opportunities. These include reshaping training and learning provision, developing new apprenticeship opportunities and improving careers advice for young people. 

There is also an agreement to work with the Council and the LEP on integrating national and local business support services to make it easier for local businesses to find the support they need, and develop a devolved approach to business support from 2017.

The Government has also agreed to support Cornwall’s aim to create a low carbon Enterprise Zone and develop geothermal energy production, as well as working with partners to help address the current constraints on the national grid and to develop proposals to improve energy efficiency in homes. 

Work will also take place on joining together funding for flood defences from a range of partners, including the Environment Agency and South West Water and the South West regional flood committee, to provide a joint investment programme to improve coastal defences, and developing proposals to ensure that the most efficient use is made of public buildings and land.

The final area of agreement is heritage and culture, with the Government pledging support for the creation of a Cornish Heritage Environment Forum.

Following the formal signing of the agreement the Council will now work with its local partners and with civil servants in London to develop detailed plans to implement the proposals.

Official Government press release on “Devolution Deal”

The Government has released a press release about the “Devolution Deal” it has agreed with Cornwall Council. The full and unaltered text of the statement is as follows:

Press release –EMBARGOED UNTIL 06:00, THURSDAY 16 JULY 2015

CORNWALL TO BE FIRST COUNTY TO GAIN HISTORIC NEW POWERS

- Cornwall to be the first county to gain historic new powers - giving local people tools to take charge
- Cornwall to be in control of bus services, adult skills and regional investment. Health and social services will also come together
- Major step in Government’s One Nation commitment to extend opportunity to every corner of our country

An historic devolution deal will for the first time, give Cornwall new powers to control local services and bring jobs, prosperity to the area.

As part of a major decentralisation in decision making, Cornwall will become the first rural county to benefit from devolution - gaining more control so it can set its own course to grow the local economy.

The move is a key part of the Government’s One Nation commitment to devolve powers to local authorities across the country and ensure hard working people can benefit from the stronger economy and decide on issues that affect them.

This includes giving areas more freedom to tailor services to local needs, support local businesses and create jobs.

The Cornwall devolution deal will:

- Give Cornwall Council powers for franchising and improving bus services in the area – the first rural unitary authority to gain this power;
- Give the Local Enterprise Partnership more say on boosting local skills levels;
- Give the council powers to select the projects, working with partners, it wants to see benefiting from millions of pounds of inward investment funding;
- Make it easier for the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership to integrate national and local business support services to help local firms grow;
- Enable Cornwall Council and the Council of the Isles of Scilly to work with local health organisations on a plan for integrating health and social care services.

Prime Minister David Cameron said:

“At the heart of this One Nation Government is the belief that everyone, no matter what their background or where they’re from, has the opportunity to get on in life.

“This devolution deal marks a major shift for the people who live and work in Cornwall – putting power in their hands and giving them the tools to take charge and make the most of the fantastic potential that Cornwall holds.

“And, alongside our long term economic plan, which has created 19,000 jobs in Cornwall since 2010 and will deliver tax cuts to benefit 2.6 million people in the region, we are determined to continue to deliver and make sure opportunity and prosperity reaches every corner of our country.”

Communities Secretary Greg Clark said:

“This deal is great news for Cornwall and I hope the first of many devolution deals for counties around the country as part of our long-term economic plan.

“This One Nation Government is determined to end the hoarding of power in Whitehall and put it in the hands of local people who know their area best.

“This historic deal ensures Cornwall has the powers and resources that will allow it to create the jobs and services it knows are best suited to the area and that will help local people and the county thrive.”

Cornwall Council Leader John Pollard said:

“This Devolution Deal is brilliant news for Cornwall. We were early in recognising the growing momentum of the national agenda for devolving powers from Westminster and, by creating a Case for Cornwall which was strong and realistic we have had a positive response from the Government. Cornwall is, therefore, the first rural authority in the country to be given a devolution deal. This gives Cornwall greater powers over public sector funding.

“This is the first stage of a longer journey towards delivering the full case for Cornwall. We will now be working with partners to develop an integrated health and social care system, and deliver significant economic growth, with enhanced business support, greater access to employment and training opportunities, together with a much improved public transport network and more efficient use of public sector buildings.”

This devolution deal is not the end of handing powers to the county. If there is a strong case put by Cornwall Council the Government will continue to listen to proposals put forward on devolving more powers in the future.

The Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill is currently passing through Parliament and puts in place the legal framework across the country that will make it simpler for devolving more powers to more places.

The Bill sets out far reaching powers to be devolved to Greater Manchester and for creating a city-wide elected metro mayor who will provide strong leadership and a clear vision.

The Government has been clear that strong leadership needs to be in place for areas seeking additional powers.

Notes to editors
1. Cornwall Council will take over responsibility for franchising bus services by 2018
2. Cornwall Council will have intermediate body status – for European Regional Development Fund and European Social Fund – which will allow it to select projects from April 2016.

Cornwall Council backs "Case for Cornwall" and "Devolution Deal"

Members of the unitary authority yesterday backed the “Case for Cornwall.

According to the Council, it “sets out the increased powers and freedoms the Council wants to secure from the Government to enable Cornwall to take greater control over its own affairs.”

On behalf of MK, I made it clear that we did not think the proposals went nearly far enough and that the likely influence of unelected bodies such as the Local Enterprise Partnership was much too great.

I pointed out that we had moved an amendment at the January meeting for the “Case” to be more ambitious, but had not won the support of the Council. We did though support the “Case,” because we could not vote against more powers for Cornwall, even if they are limited and somewhat fleeting.

The vote was 64 in favour, 24 against and one abstention. The opponents were principally the Conservative and UKIP groups.

I told the meeting that we would continue to campaign for proper devolution for Cornwall, for a Cornish Assembly and an end to the growing unelected quangocracy – I might have used slightly different words!

We then had the frankly ridiculous situation of having to go into closed session to see the “Devolution Deal” being offered by central government. They (the Government) dictated that the debate could not be in public. The confidential “pink papers” were distributed in the meeting at about 2.00 and then all collected in again at the end of the meeting.

The councillors agreed to delegate authority to the Leader to sign the “Cornwall Devolution Deal.” It remains confidential until it announced by central government, which could be as early as tomorrow as rumour has it that David Cameron could be in Cornwall tomorrow.

All I will say at this juncture is that the “Deal” is even more lightweight than the “Case” and does not go nearly, nearly, nearly far enough … more comment tomorrow, I presume.

Cornish Guardian column: "The Case for Cornwall"

In today’s Cornish Guardian, my article covered the debate around the “Case for Cornwall” and the “Devolution Deal” to be offered to Cornwall. It includes information that I have already blogged about, but in the spirit of completeness, it is as follows:

In his most recent budget speech, the Chancellor of the Exchequer stated that his Government was “making progress on a major plan” to give Cornwall “a greater say over local decisions.”

This was a reference to the negotiations between the leadership of the unitary authority and civil servants / ministers in central government, and what has been branded a “devolution deal.”

The Council has, in tandem, produced a “Case for Cornwall.” This has been endorsed by its ten-strong ruling Cabinet, and was presented to the Full Council on Tuesday 14th July (after the Cornish Guardian went to press).

The document is a mixed bag. It seeks some devolution of political and economic powers to Cornwall, alongside greater integration of the National Health Service and social care – not a devolution “ask.” And it includes specific requests for additional funding in certain areas – again not a devolution “ask.”

It will surprise no-one that, in my opinion, the “Case for Cornwall” does go far enough.

Throughout the discussions, I have repeated the MK perspective that the people of Cornwall should be seeking democratic control over the whole of the public sector through a Cornish Assembly.

This is very different to the approach of the Council, which the Chief Executive recently described as a “multi-governance model.”

By this, he meant that local government would be working in partnership with a host of partnerships and boards of limited democratic legitimacy such as the Local Enterprise Partnership, a Public Sector Group, a Strategic Infrastructure Partnership … the list goes on.

It most certainly will not be the meaningful devolution achieved in Wales and Scotland.

And at this stage, the extent of the likely “deal” with central government has not been made public. I believe it will certainly be less ambitious than has been requested through the “Case for Cornwall,” and much, much less ambitious than demanded by Mebyon Kernow.

But whatever the final “deal” offered by George Osborne and the Treasury, I believe that we must accept it, though not as an end in itself.

It is my view we must look to build on the “deal” by continuing the campaign for greater devolution to Cornwall, the creation of our own Assembly and an end to the influence of unelected and unaccountable bodies.

“Budget 2015: New deal for Cornwall fails to impress nationalists”

An Independent journalist was in Cornwall today to cover the debate about “The Case for Cornwall” and George Osborne’s limited announcement in his budget speech.

He spoke to me a couple of times during the day, and I am featured in his article, titled as above, which can now be viewed online.

It is not a great article, but if you want to view it, it can be found at: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/budget-2015-new-deal-for-cornwall-fails-to-impress-nationalists-10376304.html

George Osborne has spoken …

In his emergency budget speech, the Chancellor made a short statement with regard to Cornwall. I understand that George Osborne said: “We are making major progress on plans to give Cornwall greater say in decisions.”

There was no meaningful detail about the nature of what might be included within any arrangement, but Mr Osborne did also refer to it as his “first new county deal.”

It is disappointing that, from the Government’s perspective, the context is not the need for a distinct constitutional settlement for the unique nation of Cornwall, but a “county” one.

I would imagine that this is a likely indication of what might be offered to Cornwall in the coming weeks.

"The Case for Cornwall" and planning

In my second contribution in today’s Cabinet debate on the “Case for Cornwall,” I addressed the proposed “devolution ask” in relation to planning.

Obviously, MK and others are campaigning for a Cornish National Planning Policy Framework, but it is clear that central government is unwilling to accede to this. Within this context, the proposals that have been put forward are quite imaginative, for example, in terms of (i) Local Planning Practice Guidance Notes, which would allow a Cornish interpretation of the “national” policy framework, and (ii) potential initiatives to control second homes.

That said, the indication from the officers and Cabinet members speaking at the meeting was that central government was not looking favourably on allowing Cornwall greater planning controls, though we will have to see what transpires in the next couple of weeks.

As the Chairman of the PAC, I set out my commitment to help build the case for more planning powers for Cornwall.

I did also demand that the reference to the so-called – and increasingly unpopular – “eco-town” development near Penwithick be removed from the document.

"The Case for Cornwall" at Cabinet

The Cabinet of Cornwall Council today voted to support its “Case for Cornwall.” It will now be presented to Full Council on 14th July.

In my initial contribution to the debate, I pointed out that, in my opinion, the proposals did not go nearly far enough. I repeated the MK perspective that the people of Cornwall should be seeking democratic control over the whole of the public sector through a Cornish Assembly.

This was very different to the view expressed by Chief Executive, who described the Council's approach as being about a “multi-governance model.” By this, he meant that local government would be working in partnership with a host of partnerships and boards of limited democratic legitimacy.

I strongly criticised this aspect of the proposal and the desire to embed governance into “taskforces,” the Local Enterprise Partnership, a Public Sector Group, a Strategic Infrastructure Partnership, a Housing Investment Board … the list goes on.

I also felt it necessary to address the fact that the “Case for Cornwall” was a mixed bag – seeking some devolution powers, alongside the proposed integration of the NHS and social care (which is not a devolution “ask” as such) and specific requests for additional funding (which is obviously welcome, but again is not a devolution “ask” as such).

On the issue of governance, my concluding “soundbite” was in favour of proper “democratic devolution” as in Wales and Scotland, not the “multi-governance model” set out in the “Case for Cornwall.”

We will now have to wait to see what George Osborne says in his budget statement later today and what indications he will give about the “devolution deal” he might be willing to endorse.

A week to speak Cornish / Seythun rag kewsel Kernewek

In this coming week’s Cornish Guardian, I will use my column to publicise #SpeakCornish week. The article will be as follows:

Rag an nessa bledhen, MAGA (Keskowethyans an Yeth Kernewek) a ordenas seythun #KowsKernewek. Yma hi ow pesya ynter 4ves ha 13ves a vis Gortheren, hag a wra ri chons bryntin dhe solempnya agan yeth ha gonisogeth diblans.

For those people who cannot read Cornish, the above statement can be translated as follows: For the second year, the Cornish Language Partnership (MAGA) has organised a #SpeakCornish week. It is running from 4th - 13th July, and represents a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our distinctive language and culture.

It is my view that our identity is something vibrant and very special, and we should treasure all aspects of it. Especially important is our language, which is so vital to the very basis of our Cornishness.

I am not a Cornish speaker myself, through I do have a reasonable working knowledge of many aspects of the language. It is certainly my hope that – in the future – I might be able to find time to become more fully conversant in Cornwall’s national language.

I am therefore very pleased whenever I see events being promoted to give people the opportunity to find out more about Cornish or to actually use the language.

And this week, MAGA and a number of cultural organisations have arranged a wonderful array of events, ranging from concerts and music workshops, to film shows and numerous gatherings for people to chat in Cornish, each known as a Yeth an Werin.

So why not get into the spirit of #SpeakCornish week and visit the www.learncornishnow.com website to find out more about how you could get involved.

How about learning a few helpful phases in Cornish, such as myttin da (good morning) or dohajydh da (good afternoon), wre'ta dos omma yn fenowgh? (do you come here often?) or pandr'a vynn'ta eva? (what would you like to drink?)

How about finding out more about how the Cornish language which survives in family names such as Angove (the smith), or in the thousands of local place-names and field-names such as Penhale (head or end of the moor) or Trenance (home in the valley).

But most of all, how about just getting involved with the celebration of this most important part of our modern Cornish identity.

Not on Radio Cornwall on Monday

Further to yesterday’s blog, I will not be talking about “devolution” on Radio Cornwall tomorrow. I have been told that the station has decided to cover this on Tuesday or Wednesday, during its breakfast show. I will let you know when I will be on.

A democratic deal for Cornwall?

The media today has been full of speculation about a possible devolution “deal” for Cornwall. The subject even made the front page of the “i” newspaper. It stated that “although details of the plan are still to be finalised, the Health Service Journal (HSJ) and the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) reported that the Chancellor George Osborne will announce a new deal for Cornwall in next week’s Budget.”

It will certainly be an interesting week, if we do find out what responsibilities central government are willing to “devolve.”

Cornwall Council’s Cabinet are debating their “Case for Cornwall” on Wednesday, and a special Full Council meeting is planned for the 14th July. But the Cabinet meeting will presumably also know the nature of the Government’s “deal” by then.

I am fearful that the “deal” from Osborne will be much less than what people are hoping for. Indeed, talk of “NHS devolution” is devolution at all, but the integration of health and social care.

I am also fearful that the “deal” will be a shadow of the unitary authority’s “Case for Cornwall,” which itself lacks ambition for Cornwall. Neither the speculated “deal” or the Council’s “case” reflect any national “conversation” with the people of Cornwall, as the whole debate is stifled and focussed on a “negotiation” between local and central government, with the centre considering what limited powers it is willing to divest to the unitary authority.

Whatever is “offered” to Cornwall this coming week, I will continue to argue for a far-reaching new democratic settlement which could then be presented to local people in a binding referendum as happened in Wales and Scotland.

I will keep people up-to-date with what transpires this coming week.

I can also report that I have been invited onto Radio Cornwall on Monday morning – time to be confirmed – to speculate on the speculation!

Planning, wind turbines and public support?

My article in this week’s Cornish Guardian focuses on planning again. It is as follows:

On 18th June, Greg Clark, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, issued a ministerial statement. It stated that, in the future, “local people” will “have the final say on wind farm applications.”

In particular, the statement said: “When determining planning applications for wind energy development involving one or more wind turbines, local planning authorities should only grant planning permission if … following consultation, it can be demonstrated that the planning impacts identified by affected local communities have been fully addressed and therefore the proposal has their backing.”

Put bluntly, this means that all applications for wind turbines that are not supported by the local community must be refused by the unitary authority.

The ruling has been welcomed by anti-turbine campaigners, while many people have been talking about the “death knell” of this aspect of the renewable energy industry.

My first thought on hearing the news was why should the need for public support in planning only apply to wind turbines? Why shouldn’t it also apply to solar farms or housing or industrial developments?

Indeed, it was less than one month ago that the Planning Inspector tasked with assessing the Cornwall Local Plan told the unitary authority that it’s proposal seeking “local community support” for affordable housing schemes in rural areas was an “unjustified impediment” to development. He instructed that it be removed.

It is also the case that, in recent years and months, there have been numerous planning appeals, where (upcountry) government inspectors have ignored the (often massive) opposition of local residents and allowed unpopular developments to go-ahead.

This included the incinerator development at St Dennis, which was sanctioned by a previous Secretary of State (Eric Pickles) in 2011. He later admitted that he didn’t even read the report prepared by his planning inspector.

More recently, planning inspectors have granted 90 new properties on land near Probus, which led one resident to describe the process as “iniquitous” and “democracy destroying.” And then there was the very recent series of adverse appeal decisions at Par (44 new properties) and St Austell (two developments of 131 and 190 new housing units), which were variously described by councillors as “ill-conceived” and “thoroughly bad.”

Surely, it cannot be right than public opinion is only a planning consideration for wind turbine applications, and not other equally controversial proposals. Where’s the consistency?