Today the Dunlop Review to ensure UK government departments worked in the best interests of devolution has published its report. The report has assessed the UK Governments’ current Union capability and has made a set of recommendations. It makes the case for a transformation to guarantee that the Union is a key consideration embedded in policy development, decision-making and delivery. Below are key points from the review:
1. A new senior Cabinet member entitled ‘Secretary of State for Intergovernmental and Constitutional Affairs’ should be formally recognised with specific responsibility for the constitutional integrity of the United Kingdom.
2. The proposed new Secretary of State should be supported by a new Cabinet sub-committee tasked with preparing cross-government priorities to enhance the Union.
3. HM Treasury should set aside a fund for UK-wide projects which will incentivise and support departments to initiate projects that strengthen the Union. The fund should also be open to bids from UK Government departments and devolved governments working in co-operation.
4. Departmental structures should be reformed to equip them with the necessary Union and devolution capability.
5. Devolution teams should be at the heart of government departments to address the need for increased policy presence in devolved regions.
6. To address relationships between devolved nations and the UK Government a UK Intergovernmental Council (UKIC) should be established.
7. The proposed UKIC should be supported by a standing independent secretariat to ensure impartiality.
8. Spending by the UK Government in developed nations should be clearly marked with UK Government branding.
9. UK Government departments should keep up to date about the activities and spending of devolved administrations to ensure an effective communications strategy.
10. The new Secretary of State for Intergovernmental and Constitutional Affairs should ensure that public bodies with a UK-wide remit are representative of the UK.
A further review will be undertaken by Lord Dunlop to consider whether UK Government structures are configured in a manner that strengthens the Union. This review will begin in July and conclude in the Autumn through a report to the Prime Minister.
To view todays published Dunlop Review: HERE