As Michael Gove defended the funding of the Government’s levelling-up promises and insisted they will ‘change the economic model of this country’, North East businesses have been telling The Northern Echo what they think.
… significant support is needed, addressing regional inequalities and moving beyond just job creation…
The Northern Echo writes
Nigel Emmerson, partner at Womble Bond Dickinson, told us: “The 12 Missions to Level Up the UK are welcome news…
… “The increase of R&D funding outside of the Greater South East by at least 40% by 2030 was also welcome news”.
Jonathan Walker, policy director at the North East England Chamber of Commerce said: “For a long time we have campaigned for Government to recognise the damage that the inequalities between regions do to the national economy. We therefore welcome the Levelling Up White Paper…”
.. Jo Robison, Director of DPP Planning which has offices in Newcastle and Leeds, said: “The policy of devolving central government money to mayoral combined authorities has proved effective. Expanding this could release energy, ideas, and leadership where it is needed most, particularly in the regeneration of urban areas…”
… Speaking up for small firms, FSB National Chair Mike Cherry, said: “This paper certainly isn’t short of ambition but we need to make sure it is delivered well. The acid test will be whether small firms, which are integral to our economic recovery, feel better supported, are better connected, can find the right staff and feel more pride in their area…”
‘In the towns and areas of the country where it is most key to level up….”
“Our research shows half of small business owners in these ‘less favoured areas’ striving to become a business leader in their community. But significant support is needed, addressing regional inequalities and moving beyond just job creation.”
