Swinney urged to adopt Manchester-style regional model for Scotland

Experts urge First Minister John Swinney to adopt a "Manchester model" for Scotland, arguing regional devolution can proceed without radical local council restructuring. The appeal follows his plans to merge local authorities and reduce health boards. Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli and Iain Anderson propose strengthening existing Regional Economic Partnerships with statutory powers, avoiding time-consuming major reforms. They suggest REP cabinets, chaired by visible local leaders, could drive economic growth while remaining accountable to constituent councils. Swinney has stated reforms must not create new administrative layers or politicians, and he is open to devolving economic powers to stronger regions. The SNP government opposes regional mayors, unlike England's system.