Lloyd takes on mayoral role

Interim Mayor of Greater Manchester Tony Lloyd (right) with Oldham council leader Councillor Jim McMahon

Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd has been officially appointed interim Mayor of Greater Manchester at a ceremony in Oldham.

His appointment was rubber-stamped at the meeting of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) at Oldham Civic Centre, marking the latest milestone in the devolution of powers from Whitehall to Greater Manchester. Local people will be given direct control over the region’s destiny, with the power to shape its future.

Mr Lloyd said: “For too long people in Greater Manchester have felt disengaged from politics and politicians. Politics is often seen as something that happens down in London with no relevance to us here. Real power is being repatriated from Whitehall to the streets of Greater Manchester. That gives everyone a stake.”

In his new role, which will also see him chair the GMCA, Mr Lloyd will oversee the Greater Manchester Strategy for economic growth, job creation, improved public services and supporting opportunities, health and better neighbourhoods.

The position paves the way for the directly-elected mayor who will be chosen by the people of Greater Manchester in 2017.