COLCHESTER MP Sir Bob Russell has called for the abolition of Essex County Council and the creation of an East of England “powerhouse”.

The veteran MP spoke during questions on English devolution today. 

He said: “The population of Essex is more than double that of Cornwall, and the population of the six counties of the east of England is considerably greater than that of Wales so may we have devolution to the powerhouse of the six counties of the east of England?”

Greg Clark, a Cabinet Office Minister of State, responded: “Through the Government’s programme over the past few years, we have devolved - and we will complete the devolution of - £12billion of resources that were previously administered by ministers and officials in Whitehall to Essex and other great counties.

“That is work in progress, but I agree with my honourable friend that we can and should go further.”

Speaking afterwards, Sir Bob added: “I would abolish Essex County Council and replace it with a regional body having the same powers as the Welsh Government has.”

He also said authorities such as Colchester Council should have local government issues, such as highways powers, transferred to it.