What can England’s established devolved regions teach the ‘devolution deserts’? And how is English devolution evolving over time?”
As part of the Campaign for Social Science’s 2026 series on devolution, this event will unpack the different experiences of devolution in different parts of England, and ask what the established devolved regions might be able to teach the so-called ‘devolution deserts’ as they prepare to embrace new powers. We will ask what have been the ‘quick wins’ for combined authorities and mayors, what problems have been harder to address, and how the relationship between Westminster and regional leaders is changing. Our panel will also consider what further changes might be needed to England’s devolution landscape over the coming years. Our panellists are: Chair, Akash Paun: Programme Director at the Institute for Government; Prof. Andy Westwood: Professor of Public Policy, Government & Business at the University of Manchester; Prof. Georgina Blakely: Associate Dean of Teaching & Learning in the School of Human & Health Sciences at the University of Huddersfield; Prof. John Boswell FAcSS: Professor in Politics & Public Policy, University of Southampton; Rebecca Gipp: Head of Strategic Innovation & Co-ordination, Essex County Council.
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