Inclusion of district councils in devolution negotiations

That this House recognises the crucial role played by district councils in delivering services to communities across the country; welcomes the Government’s commitment to further devolution talks; notes with concern initial comments from ministers that negotiations would take place with county councils only; but further welcomes subsequent suggestions that district councils would be consulted; and calls for the Government to commit to working with district councils whose expertise, local networks and knowledge for example supporting local economic development, housing and planning are key to a successful outcome.