MPs support English devolution bill in key parliamentary vote

A majority of MPs have voted in favour of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill during its second reading in Parliament, marking a significant step toward shifting power from central government to local communities.

The vote, held on 2 September, saw 365 MPs support the legislation, while 164 opposed it. The Bill aims to decentralise decision-making by granting greater authority to regional and local bodies across England.

Ex Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner described the Bill as a landmark moment for British governance. She said the reforms would usher in a “new era” by enabling communities to have a stronger voice in shaping their local areas. “This Bill will drive the biggest transfer of power in a generation out of Whitehall to our regions and communities,” Rayner stated.

The legislation is designed to enhance local autonomy, improve public services, and foster economic development through tailored regional strategies. It includes provisions for increased funding flexibility, local control over infrastructure projects, and expanded powers for elected regional leaders.

However, the Bill has faced criticism from opposition figures. Shadow local government secretary Sir James Cleverly warned that the reforms could lead to the creation of a “cohort of puppet mayors,” suggesting that the decentralisation may be superficial if local leaders lack genuine independence.

The Bill will now proceed to committee stage, where its provisions will be examined in detail. Supporters argue that it represents a long-overdue shift toward empowering communities, while critics remain cautious about the practical implications of the proposed changes.