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Lib Dems plan powerful new body for north

Danny Alexander writes for the Press and Journal.
Danny Alexander writes for the Press and Journal.

Senior Liberal Democrats will today raise the prospect of creating a powerful new body dedicated to addressing the needs of the Highlands and islands.

In a significant move, Chief Treasury Secretary Danny Alexander is expected to suggest the establishment of a “a forum with more clout” to ensure all levels of government are working together for the region.

The proposal will be made as the party pledges to deliver a “different approach” to governing locally if Scottish independence is rejected next month.

Mr Alexander, MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, will be joined tonight by Scottish Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie and Ross, Skye and Lochaber MP Charles Kennedy at an event at the Millburn Academy community complex.

The plans will be announced as both sides in the referendum campaign battle for every last vote before the historic ballot in three weeks, and also with at least one poll having suggested that Mr Alexander could be on course to lose his seat at next year’s general election.

Mr Alexander will say: “I believe a fundamental part of a new settlement in Scotland after a No vote must be more powers held and used here in the Highlands and islands, and in other local communities in Scotland.

“Of all the regions in Scotland, the Highlands and islands has the most distinct needs, challenges, ideas, and indeed culture and identity.”

He will discuss the slow progress with major north infrastructure projects, such as dualling the A9, as well as the “emasculation” of Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and the need to fulfil the vision of the University of the Highlands and Islands.

Mr Alexander will say: “We Highland Liberal Democrats want a different approach. We want those powers to be handed back to the Highlands and to our communities.

“Stronger local government, with more power and a general power of competence to take decisions that are right for their area.

“And we need to think about whether there needs to be a forum with more clout than the Convention of the Highlands and Islands to bring together elected representatives and all levels of government to make sure that decisions are being made in the best interests of our area.”