Lib Dem mayoral candidate welcomes new powers but criticises election delay

Martin Tod, Liberal Democrat candidate for Mayor of Hampshire and the Solent and Leader of Winchester City Council, has welcomed the Government’s plans to give elected mayors greater powers but warned that Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being held back by the delay to the region’s mayoral election.

Responding to the announcement, Martin Tod said the new powers could make “a real difference” if used to meet the differing needs of communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

“Lib Dems have always believed in keeping things local. If we have a Mayor who’s prepared to listen and use these new powers to meet the different needs of different parts of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, our region can become an even stronger powerhouse for the national economy.”

However, he said it was disappointing that the Government had failed to clarify when the Hampshire and Solent mayoral election would take place, with it still expected to be delayed until 2028.

“Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are losing out on investment and opportunities because of that delay,” he said.

Mr Tod also criticised the Government for failing to devolve responsibility for ferry services alongside buses and rail.

“It’s great that buses and trains will be under more local control. But if we want a genuinely joined-up transport network across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and the Solent, local control has to include ferries as well.”