Decision details

Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Economy, Transport and

Environment providing an update on the Economic Development

Strategy Consultation.

It was confirmed that a consultation on the draft Economic Strategy presented to Cabinet earlier in the year had been carried out and approval was now sought for the updates arising from the consultation. Once approved, a detailed action plan would be drawn up to implement the Strategy.

Cabinet discussed the role of devolution in delivering the Strategy and recognised that meaningful devolution would allow more significant decisions to be made locally. As the South East is a net contributor to the UK economy and Hampshire is a significant element of the region, devolution could help to maintain international competitiveness that would be of benefit to the Hampshire economy and to the whole of the UK.

The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.

Following consideration of the report, Cabinet recognised the final Cabinet meeting before retirement for the Director of Economy, Transport and Environment, Stuart Jarvis. On behalf of the County Council, he was thanked for his hard work and significant contribution to Hampshire and to the Hampshire economy over many years. Mr Jarvis thanked Cabinet members for their comments and all County Councillors for their support. He noted the huge level of ambition and passion in Hampshire and the importance of the economy in underpinning safe, healthy and successful communities.