City region and regional growth deals are two types of funding packages that cover every part of Scotland. They are agreed between and co-funded by the UK and Scottish governments, with additional spending commitments from local partners such as councils and businesses.

Audit Scotland reported last year that the Covid-19 pandemic, war in Ukraine and high UK inflation put financial pressure on Scottish councils. Without additional funding, the report warns of the real risk that deals will not stretch as far as expected and that partner funding may not materialise as a result.

In a new inquiry, the committee aims to take stock of the city region and regional growth deals across Scotland, examining what they have delivered so far and barriers to their success.

Commenting on the new inquiry, committee chair Pete Wishart MP, said: “City region and regional growth deals have the potential to provide fantastic economic opportunities for local economies across Scotland. But given the challenging economic circumstances, are these plans achieving what Holyrood and Westminster intended?

“It is hugely important that deals agreed by the UK and Scottish governments, with earmarked funding for Scottish regions, are delivered as effectively and efficiently as possible.

“As a committee, we will examine their progress so far and identify whether they are delivering what they intended – ensuring that city region and regional growth deals deliver for the people of Scotland.”