A NEW devolution deal for Cornwall focused on skills, green energy, and Cornish culture has been announced by the Chancellor during his Autumn Statement last week.

The level two deal has been negotiated following the decision not to pursue a level three deal, which would have required the introduction of a directly elected mayor for Cornwall.

The proposed deal includes: Skills: Government will fully devolve the adult education budget from 2025, giving the Council control over how best to support adult learners, so we can make sure people have the right skills for the new industries developing in Cornwall, including those in the net zero economy. Green energy: The creation of a Cornwall Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) Commission to bring clean energy to the shores of Cornwall and elsewhere quicker, enabling Cornwall to contribute to the delivery of the UK’s targets for renewable generation.Cornish culture: The deal means Cornwall Council will be able to attend meetings of the British-Irish Council alongside the UK Government as an advisor on matters relating to the Cornish language. It also includes a further £500,000 to support Cornish distinctiveness and the Cornish language.

Cllr Linda Taylor, leader of Cornwall Council, said: “This level two deal is the very best we could have hoped for after the decision in April not to pursue the level three deal due to the requirement for a directly elected Mayor.”

For more information visit: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/