Member

The way the Bill reads to me is that, within that hierarchy, devolution powers given to a single foundation strategic authority are limited, and a request cannot be made to the Secretary of State to increase those. However, I understand from conversations that this should be seen as a floor for devolution capabilities and there is no ceiling. I would be interested to hear from the Minister whether other legislation already on the statute book can be used. I would welcome very strongly an affirmation from the Minister that we can request further powers on areas such as Defra, being able to be part of the strategic place partnership with Homes England, and, if Cornwall wished, applying the tourist tax. Tourism is very important to Cornwall. I am not saying this is, or would be, the policy of Cornwall Council, but it is certainly a power that it would want to exercise if it felt able.