Mechanisms in the Bill comprising the new statutory role for Mayoral Strategic Authorities (MSAs) could risk being too subject to goodwill. GBR should be required to enter into mayoral partnerships when requested to do so by an MSA whose request meets certain criteria in line with the Long Term Rail Strategy. MSAs should be statutory consultees on the Long Term Rail Strategy, and GBR should be required to give weight to—not simply have regard to—the Local Transport Plans of MSAs and Passenger...

Mechanisms in the Bill comprising the new statutory role for Mayoral Strategic Authorities (MSAs) could risk being too subject to goodwill. GBR should be required to enter into mayoral partnerships when requested to do so by an MSA whose request meets certain criteria in line with the Long Term Rail Strategy. MSAs should be statutory consultees on the Long Term Rail Strategy, and GBR should be required to give weight to—not simply have regard to—the Local Transport Plans of MSAs and Passenger Transport Executives. (Recommendation, Paragraph 82) Type: conclusion | Number: 31 | Response status: response_pending Government response: The Government notes this recommendation. It is vital that GBR ensures local priorities are a key consideration in decision-making to develop a railway that reflects the priorities of the communities it serves. As the Committee recognises, the Government is committed to strengthening devolution in E