Ministers explore how to stop regional leaders misusing planned new spending powers

Meg Hillier, chair of the Treasury select committee, says strong oversight structures are needed alongside devolution. Photograph: Jill Mead/The Guardian

Ministers are mulling over how to ensure that England’s regional leaders do not misuse their newfound spending muscle, as Whitehall prepares to devolve more revenue to local levels.

Ideas under consideration include a new select committee in Westminster, enhanced reporting rules and a new audit body focused on local and regional government.