The North East has come a long way since I first took my seat in Parliament 25 years ago. The region’s economy has been dramatically reshaped and we are still going through a period of transition, with high levels of employment, and record levels of economic growth. As Minister for the North East, I will represent and champion our region in the centre of government to ensure that the North East is given the best possible chance to reach its full potential.
In my view, the key to improving the opportunities for the region is driving up the performance of the economy in the North East. We currently have the fastest growing regional economy in the country and I am working closely with colleagues in local government and regional bodies, such as the Government Office for the North East, One NorthEast and the Learning and Skills Council, to ensure that this progress is maintained. The Government’s recent Review of Sub-National Economic Development and Regeneration made recommendations on how power should be devolved to the local level to ensure that decisions affecting economic development are made by those who are in the best position to do so. I will continue to work closely with all regional bodies to ensure that these recommendations are implemented in the most suitable way for the North East.
Underpinning the prosperity of the region are employment, skills and the transport infrastructure. Without making further effort in these areas, it is unlikely that the economy of the North East will continue to grow at the rate it has. For this reason, I am working with my colleagues within the Government and the private sector to improve the prospects for the region, ensuring that North East is an attractive place for businesses to invest.
Improving the economy means improving the lives of everyone in the North East in a region which has had more than its fair share of challenges over the last few decades. Alongside my key priority of improving the region’s economy, I work with regional bodies, including the Strategic Health Authority, the Regional TUC, the region’s three police forces, cultural organisations and the voluntary and community sector, to ensure that everyone in the region enjoys a high quality of life.
As Minister for the North East, I am keen to hear your views on issues affecting the region. If you would like to contact me, please email me ministerforthenortheast@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk
