The government has set out plans for the devolution of powers to the English regions.

The deputy prime minister, John Prescott, unveiled the measures in the Commons. The white paper on regional governance sets out plans for an overhaul of local government, taking decision making "closer to the people".

Forum Response: The Community Fund

A spokesman for the Community Fund told ePolitix.com: "The Community Fund welcomes the new white paper in principle and will be responding to it in full when our board has had time to consider all the implications of it.

"The Community Fund already has a fully devolved decision-making structure with offices in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales and in the English regions. We are already connected with grass roots communities and we regularly consult with all our stakeholders locally."