Report

Accountability gap

This report from UK think tank the Fabian Society explores how robust accountability can unlock devolution’s promise.

England is finally getting a stronger subnational tier of government. Labour is rolling out a new way of governing – one that offers the promise of an economy that works for the whole country by giving places control over what matters. Powers and funding historically held by Westminster will transfer to mayors and council leaders covering city-regions and counties across England. These devolved institutions can help reverse the economic decline exacerbated by our highly centralised state.

Robust accountability will support mayors to deliver on the promise of economic growth, better living standards, and stronger democracy. But the current system of accountability is both too weak and too strong.

Local scrutiny systems remain weak given the strength of executive power. Accountability to the public remains unclear and is failing to build the trust that will see these institutions survive and thrive long term. Accountability to the UK government dominates all other forms of accountability, consuming local capacity, and creating a chilling effect on local agency. The focus on financial accountability has been too strong, leading to wider considerations like democratic legitimacy and agency being overlooked.

In this report, senior researcher Marcus Johns sets out how to create a more balanced system of accountability.