Date Posted: 19 May 2010
As Parliament meets for the first time in its new colours there remains much uncertainty about its regional policies and what it might mean for Leeds and Yorkshire. Our concerns centre on how the regional voice will be heard at in Westminster as it starts to fry the really big fish.
Whilst others will debate their efficacy, there is no doubt that up until a couple of weeks ago we had two strong routes into central government – the RDA’s, whose Chair and Chief executive met regularly with their Secretary of State to advance the region’s agenda, and a regional minister who would promote all things Yorkshire across a multitude of government Departments and Committees. The future of both remains in question and the Leeds City Region is still embryonic and yet unable to have a clear voice.
It remains for the private sector rebuild its political lobby (and I know lots of groundwork has already been done) and colleagues at the Chambers of Commerce, the CBI, the IoD and others have our full support.
Meanwhile, the papers reported on a Labour/Green Party agreement on Leeds City Council that will take control from the Lib Dem / Conservative coalition that has run the City for the last few years. That needs to be confirmed – or otherwise – at the Councils AGM next week. As with National government we need clarity and stability as soon as possible and we look forward to working with the new administration to make sure we do have a share of voice.
Finally – today saw the launch of the new City Sightseeing bus and boat – I was lucky enough to be on the maiden ‘voyage’ and it works very well too. Anybody with a real interest in the City should have a go – not only will you learn something new and see the city from a different perspective but you can also pretend you were part of a cup winning Leeds United team touring the city in triumph once again (well I did anyway).
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