The devolution discussions are wending their way forward.  The government has stated that both Norfolk and Suffolk must be involved as in the LEP. A number of powers will be handed down only if an elected mayor controls a combined authority.

There is now a Norfolk and Suffolk Framework Document for Devolution, which gives a clearer list of ambitions.  It opens “Devolution offers an exciting opportunity for greater local decision-making and influence to power economic growth and productivity and unlock the potential of Norfolk and Suffolk.  The two counties have the scale, ambition and leadership to maximise the opportunities offered by additional freedoms and responsibilities. We also have the potential to grow our economy faster, with strengths in key sectors such as agri-tech, food & health, energy and the digital economy.”

The framework claims strengths as:

• National hubs for key business sectors, eg financial industries, that need to be nurtured to become magnets for global inward investment
• An all-energy coast at the centre of the world’s largest market for offshore wind
• Globally-leading research in life sciences and agri-tech, and pioneering technical innovations in ICT research and development.
• The UK’s busiest container port, in Felixstowe
• A fast-growing creative digital sector, with Norwich recently recognised by Tech City UK
• Market-leading food and drink producers
• Our first-class cultural heritage attractions mean tourism is worth £4.6bn annually across Norfolk and Suffolk

However, while our employment figures are among the best in the country, our skills and productivity levels are below the national average.

I believe the need to work with Norfolk and a wider variety of political parties has helped clarify the way forward.  Negotiations continue.