Former prime minister Gordon Brown will give evidence next week to the ongoing inquiry into devolution led by Lord Kerslake.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Reform, Decentralisation and Devolution in the UK is due to meet on September 8.
Inquiry chair Lord Kerslake said: ‘We’re naturally delighted that Gordon Brown has agreed to take part in an evidence session given his background knowledge and understanding of this subject. His work to complete the process of devolving powers to Northern Ireland in 2010, for instance, gives him an invaluable awareness of how devolution can work in spite of challenges.
‘We know that the impact of devolution on local government would be fundamental and listening to the opinions of those people who have been at the heart of government and understand the issues is key to the work of the inquiry.
‘Specifically, we will be asking Mr Brown about what drove New Labour’s approach to devolution, how he believes further powers and responsibilities can best be transferred from central government, and his thoughts on ideas such as a constitutional convention for the UK.
‘Mr Brown was not only heavily involved in devolution when in government, but also very active during the recent referendum in Scotland, so I’m convinced he can provide the inquiry with some insights of real value.’
The APPG will also hear evidence from a number of leading academics and peers.
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