West Yorkshire Combined Authority Chair responds to devolution developments

Susan Hinchcliffe has responded to devolution developments that took place recently.

Responding to the developments that took place recently, Susan Hinchcliffe, West Yorkshire Combined Authority Chair, said: “We are committed to moving forward on the basis we have set out with a coalition of the willing seeking the deal that offers the best for everyone in Yorkshire. We will do this constructively and on a cross-party basis.

“It’s time for Yorkshire's voice to be heard as loud as those of London and other regions, and it is too important not to continue those discussions seeking a way forward with all interested parties.

“We will continue to work on securing a devolution deal that Yorkshire can be proud of, delivering jobs, homes and prospects that the people of this county deserve and growth that benefits the whole of the country.”

After meeting at the end of August, representatives from over 15 councils confirmed their commitment to progressing a devolution deal with government.

In a statement after the meeting they said: “We are confident that given the right deal and the right funding, Yorkshire can finally complete the missing piece in the Northern Powerhouse project benefiting Yorkshire, the North and the whole country in the process.”

The councils include Barnsley, Bradford, Calderdale, Craven, Doncaster, East Riding of Yorkshire, Hambleton, Harrogate, Hull, Kirklees, Leeds, North Yorkshire, Richmondshire, Ryedale, Scarborough, Selby and York.

Earlier this month Hinchcliffe said: “Boosting businesses and improving the lives of the most disadvantaged in our communities through real, inclusive growth can only be done with decisions made locally through devolution rather than by officials hundreds of miles away in Westminster.

“We are now seeking an urgent meeting with ministers to discuss how best we can work as partners to progress this deal and ensure Yorkshire is no longer allowed to be left behind.

“We want devolution by 2018 and we are confident that given the right deal and the right funding, Yorkshire can finally complete the missing piece in the Northern Powerhouse project.”