One of the clear messages from the recent Euro referendum was that people want to see more democratic control over the decisions that affect them.

At the moment, the ‘Combined Authority’ for Lancashire is being set up. This involves all the local councils cooperating on areas where things need sorting out on a county-wide level.

Big transport projects, and some economic development work, are examples.

Lancashire wants some powers – and funding – devolved directly to us from London.

I am clear that all this will be good for Burnley. Our town will benefit from a strong Lancashire.

We have already shown the way to generate jobs and economic growth by forging partnerships between business and local government, being radical and showing that the status quo is not an option.

This shows that Burnley will play a big part in the Lancashire Combined Authority.

As Lancashire gets its ‘devo-deal’, a question will come up.

Who should actually make the key policy decisions for the Combined Authority?

I am coming to the view that the big cities in the region are taking the right approach.