Government reaffirms commitment to the North on fifth anniversary of Northern Powerhouse; The effort to close the North-South divide through a wide-ranging agenda designed to boost the region's economy was launched by former Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne.
Byline: Chris Knight
The Government insists it remains determined to do more for the North as it marks the fifth anniversary of the Northern Powerhouse.
The effort to close the North-South divide through a wide-ranging agenda designed to boost the region's economy was launched by formerChancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne.
ChronicleLive joined forces with newspapers and websites across the the North of England earlier this monthto demand the Government does more to support our communities.
However, Prime Minister Theresa May insists the pledge to support the region remains "stronger than ever".
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She said: "We launched the Northern Powerhouse to support a thriving Northern economy and ensure this country works for everyone.
"From kickstarting the biggest transfer of power to local leaders since the Second World War, to driving up exports and spending billions on vital transport links, we're working to ensure our great Northern cities and communities have the power and resources they need to succeed.
"But there is much more to do, which is why it must remain a top priority for Government to do all it can to unlock the North's vast potential, so that both at home and on the international stage the Northern Powerhouse continues to thrive."
The Government claim the economy of the North is now worth more than [pounds sterling]339bn -- a [pounds sterling]10bn increase in real terms -- and supports an additional 287,000 people in employment.
The Northern Powerhouse Schools Strategyhas seen [pounds sterling]70m pumped into a renewed focus on education and skills, while the [pounds sterling]24m Opportunitya[macron]North East programme created a bespoke package for schools and communities.
Almost half of the region is now represented by elected metro mayors, which the Government says tailors local spending plans and gives area a more influential voice.
Northern Powerhouse Minister, Jake Berry MP, said: "The Northern Powerhouse was created five years ago because communities across the North had been overlooked for too long.
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