UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to “maximise the power of the North”

The UK Prime Minister is expected to announce new powers to be given to regions in the North of England.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will pledge his commitment to strengthening the Northern Powerhouse in a speech in South Yorkshire today (September 13).

Speaking to local business leaders, mayors and councillors, the Prime Minister is expected to say: “It is time that we gave more people a say over the places where they live, and it is time that we gave you the proper ability to run things your way.

“We are going to maximise the power of the north. And we are going to make sure that it is people here who are in control over the things that matter to them.”

As well as plans to create a new growth body, he is also expected to express his plan for delivering Northern Powerhouse Rail, following the review of HS2.

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has welcomed the news, with CBI chief UK policy director Matthew Fell commenting: “Firms will warmly welcome the ambition of the Prime Minister’s speech and the determination to unlock the vast economic power of The North.

“Committing to HS2 in full is a key part of ensuring investment flows into all corners of Northern England, enabling firms to grow, create jobs and boost productivity.

“The devil will be in the detail from the government, but business is totally committed to working with it to deliver economic prosperity, and the benefits of further devolution, for all.”

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