Jon Bright (London, OK): Michael Heseltine's 'Cities Taskforce' unveiled today a set of policy proposals aimed at creating what he calls a "cities renaissance". Of the many proposals, which are not official Conservative party policy but are certain to be strongly considered by the opposition, the most striking is Heseltine's call for directly elected executive mayors, "similar to those in the United States" to end the "suffocation" of local government by an over powerful centre. The new mayors would have far greater power than current ones (of which there are 13 around the country), including the right to appoint their own staff and greater control over finances.
Dermot Finch, director of ippr's Centre for Cities, welcomed the proposal. "Mayors will help England's big cities unlock the powers they need to deliver regeneration, improve transport, and spark further economic growth" he said.
David Cameron meanwhile proclaimed himself "delighted" with the set of proposals. The Conservative party, which had previously opposed the creation of a Greater London Assembly, has now called on the public to choose their candidate for the next London Mayor election in May 2008, in what often appears a cross between a US presidential primary and a reality TV show - something like Any Mayor Will Do (as long as they're Tory). What price Heseltine's proposals rolling similar reality mayor competitions throughout the country? Certainly could be a way to boost turnout.
