North East chamber sets out budget demands
The Chamber of Commerce are calling on the Chancellor to prioritise the North East's transport network
Ahead of the Budget on Wednesday, the North East England Chamber of Commerce say it's time for more investment in the North East.
They're calling on Philip Hammond to improve the transport infrastructure in our region - in particular by funding new trains on the Tyne and Wear Metro and revamping Darlington Station.
They also want to see more powers given to the Tees Valley and more support for regional exporters - particularly ahead of Britain leaving the EU in 2019.
Jonathan Walker, the Chamber's Head of Policy says:
"If the Government is serious about securing the much-heralded prize of closing the gap between London and other regions, there is major work needed to change the distribution of public and private investment, and economic activity in the UK.
"This is a trend that has built up over several decades. Listening to the calls of businesses in our region is essential to achieve this."
The Chamber, which represents 3,000 business across the North East, are also calling on the government to ensure local businesses are properly financed and have the best trained workforce in the future - something they say is vital for the region's economy.