It was great to join ministers from across the world at the OECD Ministerial on Regional Development in Warsaw 
. We had thoughtful discussions on how local approaches are vital to tackling the big challenges we face – from climate to growth. Grateful to the OECD as a leading institution for evidence-based policy.
The evidence is clear: the UK is one of the most centralised countries in the OECD. I set out how our English Devolution agenda is changing that – empowering communities to drive growth, invest in what matters locally, and shape their own future.
Then went to Leeds on Thursday to speak at the UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum. We are working alongside so many local leaders and mayors, who are driving forward our ambitions to boost regional growth, unlock jobs and build the homes and communities people across the country deserve.
Ended the week back in London at the largest Mayoral Council yet, where we met with the Deputy Prime Minister and combined authority Mayors of all political stripes from across England to discuss our ongoing work to boost growth by taking power out of Westminster and putting it in the hands of local people in the places where they live.
Now the House has risen for the Whitsun recess, I am able to be back in Oldham for the bank holiday weekend.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 