Cornwall should be treated more like its own nation within the UK rather than just a county, with a parliament and significant new powers to preserve its identity and shape its future, a new campaign suggests.
Six Labour and Lib Dem MPs from the duchy have backed a proposal for a 60-member Cornish assembly, named Senedh Kernow, similar to the Welsh Parliament.
This assembly would have its own civil service of 900 people, control over a separate Cornish police force, and powers to address the serious economic and social challenges in the area west of the River Tamar.
It would also focus on promoting the Cornish language and protecting Cornwall’s unique Celtic heritage.
The report recommends that the Westminster Government appoint a Minister for Cornwall to ensure direct representation in government. Despite its image as a wealthy holiday spot, Cornwall is one of the most deprived regions in the UK.
Many locals struggle to afford housing due to low wages and high property prices, especially in popular tourist areas.
Cornwall’s infrastructure is also stretched, with only one major hospital serving its population of 570,000. Its sole university, based in Falmouth, specialises in creative arts and offers limited STEM courses.
Labour’s election manifesto included plans to transfer more power from Westminster through new devolution laws, and MPs believe Cornwall is an ideal candidate for such reforms.
In a foreword to the report, the MPs argued: “The strength of our case should be recognised. Cornwall is not only a unique and vital contributor to the UK economy but also a celebration of cultural diversity. With devolved powers, it could achieve even more.”
Devolution minister Jim McMahon recently told a Cornish MP that the new devolution deal already agreed is a significant first step. He said, “It will allow us to unlock deeper devolution in Cornwall and, in time, enable Cornwall to take its place at the Council of the Nations and Regions.”
There have also been calls for Cornwall to have representation on the British-Irish Council, which includes governments from the UK, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, as well as Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man.
Since its creation in 1997, the Welsh Parliament has steadily gained law-making powers, now overseeing areas such as health, education, transport, agriculture, and some taxes.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since COVID-19 is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
There is a greater chance of litter because the infinity pool is becoming more and more popular and receives more and more visitors. Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the park, it will help keep the area tidy.
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