Call for Cornwall devolution gains momentum

An MP has called for a Cornish assembly to recognise the county’s "unique culture" and language.

North Cornwall Liberal Democrat MP Ben Maguire said devolution was crucial for unlocking the area’s economic potential.

This follows Labour MP Perran Moon’s similar appeal in his maiden speech last month, advocating for Cornwall to have a devolution arrangement akin to Wales.

Labour’s election manifesto supported transferring more power from Westminster "through landmark devolution legislation".

During Prime Minister’s Questions, Mr Maguire highlighted the challenges faced by Cornwall under a centralised approach.

"Public services are chronically underfunded, young people forced to move away to pursue careers elsewhere, and affordable housing is a promise that it simply never kept," he said.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer agreed to meet all six Cornish MPs to discuss devolution, including a Cornish assembly.

He noted ongoing efforts in the South West, including a devolution agreement for Devon and Torbay, and encouraged local authorities to pursue broader devolution initiatives.

Last month, Mr Moon, MP for Camborne and Redruth, used his maiden speech to urge the government to consider Welsh-style devolution for Cornwall to enhance economic development, culture, and governance, aiming to “unleash the Cornish Celtic Tiger.”

The Welsh Parliament has progressively gained more powers since its inception, overseeing areas such as health, education, transport, agriculture, and some taxes.

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