English 'want regional parliaments'

March 21, 2002

There is big support in the regions of England for devolving power from Westminster to elected regional assemblies, according to a new poll commissioned by the BBC.

Almost two-thirds of people (63%) want regional government, according to the survey, with less than a quarter (23%) opposed to the move, 8% undecided and 6% with no opinion.

The government is still putting together its plans for devolution but they are now not expected to be published until after the local council elections in May.

Referendums would be held in each region on whether to have the elected assemblies.

The BBC's poll shows enthusiasm varies between the regions.

Support for the move was highest in the West Midlands (73%), the North-East, North-West and Yorkshire and Humberside (all 72%).

Economic prospects

The least support for a regional assembly came in those regions closest to London.

In the East 55% were in favour and 49% in the South-East - the only area where a majority did not favour the move.

In the South West 61% backed regional assemblies, with the figure 59% in the East Midlands.

London already has its own elected assembly and two thirds of its population support that devolution, the survey suggests.

The BBC poll suggests the most popular reason why people in England would support a regional assembly is to give their area a stronger voice in both Westminster and Brussels (72%).

But many of those surveyed also thought having an elected assembly would boost their region's economic prospects.

From BBCi

Copyright (c) 2000-2002 Sue Kelly