Scottish Labour Leader to Call for Devolution of Power

Michael Marra, the new leader of Scottish Labour, is set to call for the devolution of power and resources from the Scottish Parliament to Scotland's regions. In his first conference speech as leader, Marra plans to argue that the current centralization of authority in Edinburgh has hindered economic growth.

Marra, who was elected to replace Anas Sarwar just over a week ago, will address the UK Labour conference in Liverpool. He intends to state that if Scotland's regions had experienced economic growth comparable to that of Manchester over the past decade, the Scottish economy would be £30 billion larger.

"Too much power is centralised in Scotland," Marra is expected to say. "The Scottish Parliament has hoarded money and control at the expense of Scotland's communities." He will advocate for placing "power and money" directly into the hands of local communities to foster regional economic development. Marr represents North East Scotland in the Scottish Parliament.