Unlock the Editor’s Digest for free: Analysis of UK’s local and mayoral elections

Unlock the Editor’s Digest for free

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

In the midst of the UK’s local and mayoral elections, the country is grappling with the results and what they mean for the national political scene. From the possibility of a leadership challenge for Rishi Sunak to the potential gains for the Greens, the outcomes of these elections are being closely scrutinized.

However, as England and Wales navigate through a complex web of metro-mayors, police and crime commissioners, and local councillors, questions arise about the effectiveness of these roles in enhancing local democracy. With voter turnout at a low, accountability has become increasingly obscure, raising concerns about the value of these positions and their impact on taxpayers.

While the concept of devolving power to local authorities was initially inspired by successful American models, the reality in the UK seems to be quite different. Many candidates for these positions are entrenched insiders, raising doubts about their ability to bring about real change.

Despite the challenges, there have been success stories, with mayors like Andy Burnham and Andy Street making a mark on the national stage. However, the effectiveness of police and crime commissioners in reducing crime remains questionable.

As the debate over the future of these roles continues, the need for greater scrutiny and accountability becomes increasingly apparent. With local media in decline, the responsibility falls on citizens to hold their elected officials to account and ensure that taxpayer money is being used effectively.

In the quest for a more independent and effective political system, the UK must address the shortcomings of its current devolution experiment. Only then can it truly empower local communities and ensure that their voices are heard in the corridors of power.