Supersized Unitary Authorities

Following the overwhelming 'NO' from the people of the North-East in the referendum on elected Regional Assemblies, the government promised to abandon the idea. They nevertheless continued to install them and even appointed a minister to each. But they have, for once fulfilled their promise and, as of yesterdayay, the S.E. Regional Assembly was dissolved. Good news? Far from it. As 'part of their plans to streamline regional working arrangements, its Sub-National Review', from today there will be a new S.E. Partnership Board. This will have planning, housing, transport responsibilites, and will ensure that Brussels is kept informed about the the regions' interest. This is no change except by name, it is an unelected body. More ominously, while there are many distractions, the government has announced that 44 English district and county councils will be replaced by 7, ( although 9 were also reported), 'supersized' authorites. I am hoping, being April 1st, it's a joke, but I fear not. We are on our way to the break- up of England into 9 EU Regions.