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David Cameron vows 'real devolution' for Scots

 

Katrine Bussey
Thursday 19 April 2012 04:02 EDT
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David Cameron pledged the Tories would deliver "real devolution" for Scotland's communities - just as his party had delivered on increased devolution for Holyrood.

The Prime Minister will travel north of the border to join the Conservative campaign ahead of the council elections, which take place in two weeks' time.

His visit also comes the day after MSPs unanimously backed the Scotland Bill, legislation put forward by the UK Government which will increase Holyrood's powers.

The Bill, which is expected to complete its passage through Westminster next week, will see Scotland gain borrowing powers, along with new powers over income tax.

But Mr Cameron said that, as well as transferring more powers to Scotland, he also wanted to see more powers handed down to local communities.

And he said it was the Conservatives who could deliver on this "real devolution".

Speaking ahead of his visit Mr Cameron said: "This is an important fortnight for devolution. Last night, the Scottish Parliament agreed that the Scotland Bill should proceed. We've seen all four main parties working together for Scotland.

"I promised that I would deliver on devolution and next week should see the Bill pass through Westminster.

"This is a major milestone in the constitution of Scotland, with more responsibility and accountability handed to Scots."

He added: "Just as I believe in transferring power to Scotland, I also believe in transferring power in Scotland.

"That means real devolution - handing power to people and communities. That is what Ruth Davidson and the Scottish Conservatives offer in these elections.

"So I have delivered on devolution to Scotland. Now it's time for local devolution in Scotland."

The Tories are currently the fourth party of local government in Scotland, with the Scottish National Party, Labour and the Liberal Democrats all having more councillors north of the border.

Ms Davidson, the new Scottish Tory leader, has already said she wants the Conservatives to be the third party of local government after the May 3 election.

PA

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