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|  | Thursday, 9 May, 2002, 15:19 GMT 16:19 UK English devolution plans at-a-glance
The government published its white paper on regional government on Thursday. Here are its main points.
Each area to be offered a referendum on whether to have a regional assembly Assemblies would be responsible for setting priorities, delivering regional strategies and allocating government funds Most of their funding would come from the government - from money currently given to Regional Development Agencies Assemblies would also be able to raise council taxes - equivalent to about 5p a week for Band D taxpayers Under current funding figures, a North East assembly would be responsible for about �350m and would be able to influence how another �500m was spent The assemblies would have specific responsibility for: economic development, skills and employment, housing, sport, culture and tourism, transport, planning, environmental protection Local councils would retain control of social services, education and other services. Only one layer of local government would be allowed below the assembly Some county or district councils could be abolished where assemblies are set up - but this would depend on an independent review of local government structures Assembly members would be elected by proportional representation, with each area having between 25 and 30 members, headed by a leader and cabinet. Extra powers could be given to existing Regional Development Agencies, regional chambers and Government offices in the regions Government hopes to hold the first referendum before the next general election | | See also: Internet links:
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