I welcome the Government’s recognition of the need for greater devolution, but this White Paper falls far short of the bold, transformative changes Cornwall needs. Cornwall already benefits from a single tier council, has a proud tradition of local decision making, and has recognised national minority status. The proposals fail to address the distinct challenges faced by rural and peripheral areas like ours.

While the emphasis on streamlined funding and long-term agreements is a step in the right direction, there is little clarity on how the government plans to ensure fair funding for rural communities, where higher costs and stretched services are a daily reality. Cornwall’s unique identity and needs demand a bespoke devolution settlement; not a one size fits all model dictated by Whitehall. England ends at the Tamar, and the Government must acknowledge that by empowering us with the tools we need to secure a prosperous, self-sufficient future for Cornwall.

We will push for stronger guarantees that Cornwall will have greater control over our transport, housing, and economic future, without imposing a directly elected mayor, which runs counter to Cornwall’s governance traditions. Cornish Liberal Democrats are committed to fighting for meaningful devolution not just in name but in practice, to ensure we have the power to shape their own destiny and build a thriving Cornwall for future generations.