Chancellor: North East Is Leading The Way For Devolution

Chancellor George Osborne has told Metro Radio our region is leading the way for devolution.

It's as the North East Combined Authority has set out its proposals to bring more power to the North East.

The group have now submitted a document to the Treasury.

George Osborne told us;** "The North East is leading the way amongst some of the Northern cities and coming forward with a really good plan. I don't want to pre-empt all the discussions and negotiations, but at the moment I would say the North East is edging out in front. The way you are going to make this work is not just by investing in Manchester, Leeds or even Newcastle, it's about trying to bring these cities closer together. Making sure the countys in between are also connected. It's about giving local areas more control over own affairs, and its about making sure you support the industries here."

Some of the key points the North East Combined Authority have included is for the region to be recognised as the UK’s regional export lead, by attracting investors and building on the area’s strengths.

Investment in the area’s workforce. Enabling people to develop their skills in line with the needs of local business, improving their employment opportunities and raising aspirations and expectations.

They are also calling for upgraded local transport systems across the North East - with devolved responsibility for all aspects of capital and revenue funding.

Picture Credit: Owen Humphreys / PA Wire/Press Association Images