Localism Bill: Shadow Mayors

Baroness Farrington of Ribbleton Excerpts

Tuesday 21st June 2011 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Hanham]

My Lords, I did say, in my opening remarks, that I was not sure who would be more relieved about the decision—the noble Lord, Lord Hunt, or Councillor Whitby. By the sounds of things, it will be Councillor Whitby.

[Baroness Farrington of Ribbleton]

My Lords, would the noble Baroness care to give the answer that she would give to citizens of the cities who would rather spend the cost of holding a referendum on services, particularly in the north, which has been so savagely affected by government policy?

[Baroness Hanham]

My Lords, I am assuming that the noble Baroness is not speaking for all citizens or imagines that all citizens in Birmingham will hold the same view. I am sure that there will be a number of citizens who, if given the opportunity to hold a referendum, would consider that it was money well spent.