Solent LEP welcomes Government review on accountable decision-making

The Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has voiced its support for the Government’s annual review on LEP governance and transparency released yesterday (Thursday 26 October 2017).

The review, conducted by the Depart of Communities and Local Government each year, scrutinises the effectiveness of locally established business-led partnerships between the private and public sector where public funding is channelled into each LEPs locality to drive economic growth.

Gary Jeffries, Chairman of the Solent LEP said:

“The role of LEPs has grown enormously in recent years and it is right that the Government and taxpayers have confidence in the decisions we make. I believe the Solent LEP can be very proud of both its local delivery record and transparent approach to decision-making. We already use best-practice to ensure that the funding we are entrusted with offers the public the best value for money and maximises local economic benefits.”

The Solent LEP actively participated in the Government’s review of LEP governance and transparency structures. The organisation regularly publishes an updated version of its assurance framework with the latest revision coming in August 2017, which set out the robust local arrangements to ensure that public money is spent wisely. These arrangements have always been based on the ‘Nolan principles of public life’ and have been endorsed by the LEP Board and central Government.

Gary Jeffries added:

“As we press ahead with our economic strategy for the Solent region, we will continue to ensure our investments deliver their strategic objectives and accord with the integrity local residents and businesses would expect from our decisions.”