Exam Q - Constitutional Change since 1997 - Mayors and Local Govt

Question 1

Mayors and local government reforms under Labour (1997-2010)

Why was it introduced?

Answer 1

• Wished to extend local Govt devolution.
• London approved in the 2000 referendum of an elected mayor and assembly (previously appointed by Councils) - holds legislative power but no executive power - prevents large political power.

Question 2

Powers and controls of the Mayors/Local Govt under Labour

Answer 2

• Controls funds allocation: administered and distributed by an assembly of 25 members - can veto the mayor’s budgetary and other proposals (provided ⅔ majority). Has patronage - can appoint.
• Uses AMS electoral system for the assembly = no single party will obtain an overall majority and the mayor will face some obstruction for controversies.

Question 3

Impact of the Mayors and Local Govt Reform by Labour

Answer 3

• London Mayor’s office - not as powerful as others like New York and Paris. But Livingstone (2008), Johnson (2008-16) and Khan (2016) were involved in some significant developments in London - possess influence rather than power.
• Livingstone and Johnson - partially helped to improve community policing, growth in the arts scene in the capital, and improved public transport.

Question 4

Has Mayors and the local government under Labour became more democratic?

Answer 4

Yes
+ Made the government more accountable.
+ Added another level of bureaucracy - slightly more power taken away from the central government.

Question 5

Reform under the Coalition government (2010-2015)

Answer 5

+ Introduced more elected mayors in more English cities.
+ Provided provisions for the election of new police commissioners - held accountable for the quality of policing in England and Wales.

Question 6

Has mayors and local government became more democratic under the Coalition government?

Answer 6

Yes:
+ More elected mayors in other English cities and introduced the election of new police commissioners.
+ It improves accountability in local areas, giving cities more responsibility to ensure a safe place for citizens living there.

No:
+ Not recognised - low turnout at commissioner elections and often unaware of who their local one is.
+ Another level of bureaucracy involved with the government - lack of political interest from those in the cities.

Question 7

Reform under the Conservatives

Answer 7

+ Chancellor George Osborne - committed to granting more autonomous powers to large cities (more independent local government).
- In October 2015 - local authorities were allowed to keep revenue from business rates than give it to the exchequer = gave financial independence to finance projects and policies.
- Became a benefit for cities to adopt an elected mayor system and it was the first step to a more independent local government.
+ Next step - allowed Manchester to control health and social care budgets from March 2016 with a £6M budget per annum = if successful - extended further.
- Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham are expected to become semi-autonomous and have introduced elected Mayors.

Question 8

Was Reform under the Conservatives more democratic

Answer 8

Yes:
- Helpful to fund important projects - aid or benefit the culture/history of the city.
+ Can distribute the money gained from local taxes.
+ Elected and accountable to their local community.

No:
+ Not as powerful as US or Paris mayors.