Michael Marra calls for power and funding to reach local Scottish economies

{'type': 'paragraph', 'text': 'Scottish politician Michael Marra has called for greater use of decentralised powers. His message to Bute House was to put control and money in the hands of councils, colleges and industries that understand local economies better than officials in Edinburgh.'}

{'type': 'paragraph', 'text': 'Marra highlighted shipbuilding, saying Scotland is famous for the industry and world-class in the field. Ships built in Scotland provide opportunity and security for Scottish workers, he said, and should be a source of national pride.'}

{'type': 'paragraph', 'text': 'He argued that local councils, colleges and industries should have more influence over decisions affecting their areas. With local government set to change significantly, Marra said policymakers should explore the benefits of a regional model and ensure decisions are made at the most appropriate level.'}

{'type': 'paragraph', 'text': 'Marra also said Labour could work well with his side if it ended what he described as years of sniping from the sidelines and engaged properly. His proposal is for authority and funding to be placed with institutions that know what local economies need, including communities connected to shipbuilding.'}