Issue - meetings

[To consent to the draft West Midlands Combined Authority (Functions and Amendment) Order 2016] [To Follow]

The Leader presented the summary of consultation responses in respect of the Mayoral West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Scheme. The development of the draft West Midlands Combined Authority (Functions and Amendment) Order 2016 was bought to the Council’s attention, due to the draft Order not being available for consideration; agreement was sought that Cabinet consider the draft Order. Councillor Wendy Thompson would be invited to the Cabinet meeting to comment on the draft Order.

The Council were informed there were two outstanding issues around voting and non-transport borrowing which required resolution; however the Leader was optimistic that the Chair of the WMCA would acquire a solution which was acceptable to all.  The Leader commended the work of the WMCA Chair.

The Leader highlighted the investment opportunities the devolution deal would provide to Wolverhampton and the wider region.

The recommendations were moved by the Leader and seconded by Councillor Peter Bilson.

Councillor Wendy Thompson welcomed the report and recognised the benefits devolution would provide.

Resolved:

1.That the development of the draft West Midlands Combined Authority (Functions and Amendment) Order 2016 to date, detailed in appendix A of the report be noted.

2.That the draft Order is considered and, if appropriate, approved (subject to minor and drafting amendments) at Cabinet on 30 November 2016 be agreed, as elements require government response and approval. Constituent Council approvals pending, Cabinet approval will ensure the Order can be laid in Parliament following the Combined Authority consideration of the Order on 9 December 2016. 

3.The summary of consultation results in respect of the Mayoral WMCA Scheme, as submitted to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on 5 September 2016, be noted.