The government is to implement proposals by Conservative Party veteran Michael Heseltine to devolve more decision making to the regions, it announced Monday.
David Cameron commissioned Heseltine to suggest ways in which the country could become more competitive, and the subsequent “No Stone Unturned” report was published last year.
In it, Heseltine called for the central government to slash bureaucracy and return decision-making powers and spending controls to Britain’s major cities.
The government revealed on Monday it would accept 81 of the report’s 89 recommendations in part or in full.
Chancellor George Osborne said Heseltine had challenged “received wisdom and give us bold ideas on how to bring government and industry together.
“That is why we are backing him today,” he added.
Lib Dem Business Secretary Vince Cable said the plans would “boost the UK’s competitiveness”, and promised further backing for key industries including car-making and aviation.
Gov't to adopt Heseltine plans for growth
