What next for localism?

Author: Localis, Liberal Democrat Conference 2012   |  

Localis hosted a thought-provoking fringe event at the Liberal Democrat Conference on Monday 24 September entitled ‘Game changer or flash in the pan: what next for localism?’ With localism at the heart of government policy and the Localism Act passed, the panel was asked to set out their own vision for what comes next.

There was a full room at the Old Ship Hotel keen to see our speakers:

Rt Hon Don Foster MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government
Gordon Birtwistle MP, Vice-President, Local Government Association and former PPS to Rt Hon Danny Alexander MP
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Leader of the LGA Liberal Democrat Group and Portsmouth City Council
Chair: Mike Burton, Editorial Director, The MJ

Discussion topics ranged from the skills agenda to neighbourhood planning and community assets. Highlights included Don Foster speaking passionately about how Right to Bid can empower communities and the Liberal Democrats’ traditional links to localism.

Cllr Vernon-Jackson made interesting points on the importance of parish councils in the political process. He also stated that local government has a real desire and impetus to get people into work due to their close understanding of the local economy, and recommended the devolution of some of the DWP’s functions.

Gordon Birtwistle MP shared fascinating examples of local politics in Burnley, where he has been a councillor for 25 years, and advocated local plans developed by local people.

The hashtag for the event was #nextforlocalism. Here are some of the highlights from Twitter:

  • Lively debate on the benefits & shortcomings of the localism agenda @Localis event #ldconf
  • @DonFosterMP outlining the opportunities for local communities through the Localism Act #LDConf #nextforlocalism
  • Must move on from ‘power to the people’ platitudes. Real issue is how we get #localism for #localgov and for people. #nextforlocalism