Mark Francois, Tory MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, has claimed that there is little support from the public for devolution – which would see Essex’s 15 local authorities replaced with between two and five new unitary authorities.
Essex County Council, Southend Council, and Thurrock Council have all written to the Government to ask to be involved in the first phase of national council reform, but the move would lead to 2025 elections being cancelled.
Mr Francois branded the cancellation of elections “anti-democratic” as he spoke in the House of Commons to call for a referendum.
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Speaking to ministers, Mr Francois said: “Despite what senior county councillors are telling Ministers, there is absolutely no clamour in Essex for devolution—quite the reverse.
“Nor do the public support the Government’s proposal to cancel the local elections; that is anti-democratic.”
He added: “If the Government do press ahead, why do we not take the opportunity to have a county-wide referendum in Essex to see whether the public really support this?
“They can vote for massive change or to remain as they are. If there is such a referendum, I never thought these words would pass my lips, I will gladly vote remain.”
If devolution goes ahead, elections for a greater Essex mayor could take place in May 2026. Essex County Council and Thurrock Council have both asked to cancel this May’s elections, however no elections are scheduled to take place in Southend.
Anti-democratic – Mr Francois said there was no appetite for local government reforms in Essex (Image: PA Wire)Later this month, the Government will decide if Essex will be amongst the first areas to see change.
In response to Mr Francois’ comments in the Commons, Labour’s minister for local government, Jim McMahon said: “It is the Government’s job to give direction, and we believe that efficiencies can be drawn out.
“When asked, I think local people would say that they would much rather that local neighbourhood services are maintained and grown, rather than bear the overhead costs of organisations that exist for the sake of it.”
Essex County Council has been approached for comment.