Scotland’s independent think tank
Scotland’s independent think tank

Revitalising & empowering local government

Event Date:

Watch the first in a series of Reform Scotland research papers and events in the run-up to the election in partnership with the Scottish Policy Foundation, an independent, apolitical grant-making charitable foundation that works to promote objective policy research in order to inform public debate.  This event was before a Zoom audience on 31 March 2021

In a new report ahead of May’s Holyrood election, Reform Scotland makes the case that directly-elected mayors would bring new energy to local democracy, create high-profile champions for each of Scotland’s cities and rural areas, and introduce greater accountability. It explores different models from around the world, including the significant roles created recently in England. The report also makes the case for financial devolution to councils.
 
The proposals were outlined by Reform Scotland’s Research Director Alison Payne. There was then a discussion with former first minister and Stirling council leader Lord McConnell, and Lord Adonis, former Cabinet Minister in the Blair government and head of the No.10 Policy Unit. The event was chaired by Chris Deerin, Director of Reform Scotland.