Liberal Democrats support strategic economic partnership for the North East (Fiona Hall MEP)

Fiona Hall MEP <info@fionahall.org.uk>

Liberal Democrats support strategic economic partnership for the North East

September 6, 2010 12:00 AM

Senior Liberal Democrats in the region have spoken out in support of the proposed North East Economic Partnership.

Fiona Hall, Liberal Democrat MEP for North East England, said:

"I welcome the proposal of a North East Economic Partnership that can drive economic growth and strategic investment in the region.

"Regional projects such as the roll out of electric charging points across the North East have helped to attract many green jobs to the area, with Nissan deciding to build its new battery factory and LEAF model in Sunderland.

"The North East needs a strong and united voice to attract more innovative businesses and the necessary inward investment to the region. This is why I fully support the proposed North East Economic Partnership."

Sir Alan Beith, Liberal Democrat MP for Berwick-upon-Tweed, said:

"I strongly support the North East's business-led bid to have a North East Economic Partnership to take the lead in economic regeneration. I believe it fits the government's criteria for a well-focussed organisation, building on the strengths of businesses in the region and the local authorities, as well as the experience of One North East."

Ian Swales, Liberal Democrat MP for Redcar constituency, said:

"I am pleased to support the submissions from the North East region regarding Local Enterprise Partnerships. I think the right balance has been found between giving more local control and sharper focus to the sub regions whilst still preserving a small organisation to look at those issues which need to be progressed at the regional level.

"I am excited that Teesside will have even more chance to address the unique problems and opportunities of the area. Teesside can play a key role in the industrial and manufacturing revival that the country so badly needs. Recent announcements by MGT, Sembcorp, Corus and the Tees Valley Industrial Programme show that this revival is well underway.

"I look forward to working with all stakeholders to accelerate progress and make Teesside, once again, an economic powerhouse for the UK."