COSLA President Calls for Stronger Local Voices to Restore Trust

The President of COSLA, the organization representing Scotland’s 32 councils, has emphasized the need for stronger local voices in decision-making to rebuild trust in politics. During her opening address at the COSLA Annual Conference held in St Andrews on November 13, 2023, Councillor Shona Morrison urged political leaders to support a comprehensive and long-term vision for local democracy. This vision aims to empower communities with the necessary powers, trust, and resources to thrive.

Morrison’s call comes in the wake of the launch of COSLA’s manifesto, marking the organization’s 50th anniversary. The manifesto outlines a roadmap for enhancing local government and empowering communities across Scotland. The overarching theme of the conference is “The Future of Localism,” which highlights the importance of trusting communities, empowering councils, and rejecting unnecessary centralization.

“Localism means trusting communities, empowering councils and rejecting unnecessary centralisation,” Morrison stated. She pointed out that Scotland’s strength lies in its diversity—urban, rural, and island communities—and that a one-size-fits-all approach often fails to address their unique needs. The President stressed that councils must be equipped with the powers and resources to amplify local voices, ensuring decisions are informed by community knowledge.

The conference, attended by leaders from local government, business, and academia, features notable speakers including First Minister John Swinney, Douglas Alexander MP, and political strategist Alastair Campbell. Athletes and public figures, such as Olympic champion Duncan Scott OBE and David Duke MBE, also contribute to discussions on local issues.

In her address, Morrison reiterated COSLA’s key demands from political parties in light of the upcoming 2026 elections. These include a fair, multi-year financial settlement to protect local services, the empowerment of local democracy, recognition of the vital role of council staff, and a commitment to future generations through children’s rights and opportunities. She also called for investment in cohesive communities to combat inequality and bolster local resilience.

COSLA’s manifesto outlines what it describes as a pivotal moment in the relationship between national and local government. It advocates for the complete implementation of the Verity House Agreement, local taxation reform, and new powers for councils, enabling them to make decisions based on local priorities.

“The manifesto is about ensuring we set our own agenda, rather than merely responding to that of others,” Morrison remarked. She emphasized the need for a relationship between local and national government founded on trust, respect, and equality. Morrison urged the next Scottish Government to empower local democracy and ensure that decisions are made as close to communities as possible.

“Our asks are not optional; they are essential if Scotland is to thrive. We want to work constructively with all parties, but we will not accept anything less than fairness and the power to act for our communities,” she asserted.

The COSLA Annual Conference, sponsored by CCLA, continues over two days, featuring plenary sessions, panels, and discussions on various topics, including care reform, climate leadership, community cohesion, and the online future for younger generations. The emphasis remains on fostering a political environment where local voices are not only heard but actively shape the future of their communities.