Mary Robinson, Member of Parliament for Cheadle, has welcomed the Communities and Local Government (CLG) Committee’s announcement of an inquiry into the Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill.

The Bill, which will give Greater Manchester decision making powers over important local priorities, including economic development, local transport, housing, skills and vital public services like health and social care, is priority for the Government and one which Mary campaigned for during the General Election.

The Bill also creates the position of an elected mayor for the whole of Greater Manchester’s combined authority area. The new mayor would have a range of powers and act as the police and crime commission for the area. Mary, who sits on the Committee, is keen to examine how the devolution of powers will help make local government more accountable to the needs of local people, including her constituents in Cheadle.

Mary said: “This Bill will deliver real benefits to my constituents and all the people of Greater Manchester. It will make public services more responsive to the needs of local people and boost economic growth. As a member of the Committee, I am looking forward to having the opportunity to examine in detail this key piece of Government legislation.  I am keen to examine how the Greater Manchester model can be used as a template for other towns and cities."