Devolution will put us on right track for economic success
ASSUMING Britain leaves the EU as planned, a host of powers will return to the UK.
Westminster must ensure those powers are given to local politicians. The essential principle of the Northern Powerhouse is creating a balanced economy, creating skilled job opportunities and stimulating growth.
I believe our leaders are supportive. But they are using the paralysis of Brexit to sit on their hands. The endless wrangling is being used as an excuse to ignore other issues more important to ordinary people.
This is causing major issues for the Northern Powerhouse. Nowhere is this clearer than on our railways. Commuters, families and businesses are clear; the unacceptable delays and cancellations of this summer must not be repeated.
The North’s leaders have made loud, consistent and reasonable calls for what the solution must be – allow the North to take control of its own destiny.
Devolution is the answer. Not simply on trains but a range of sectors critical to the Northern Powerhouse’s economic success.