Osborne to outline plans for ‘Midlands powerhouse’
CHANCELLOR George Osborne will use a visit to the Midlands today to reaffirm the Government’s pledge to bring devolution to the provinces.
He will talk about the region becoming the country’s “engine for growth”.
During a day-long tour of the region, he will hold talks with council leaders on how they can gain additional powers for new super-authorities headed by metro mayors.
Ministers have already agreed a devolution plan with council leaders in Greater Manchester as the centrepiece of Osborne’s widely publicised “Northern powerhouse”.
During his visit he is also expected to confirm the extension of Birmingham’s enterprise zones which are intended to attract inward investors by offering tax incentives.
It is thought the ability to base itself in such a zone played a part in HSBC’s decision to locate its UK banking operations in the city.
Osborne will also confirm plans for a series of major upgrades and improvement schemes for motorways and A roads in the region.
Speaking ahead of his visit, he said: “Our plan to rebalance the whole of the UK economy involves making the Midlands an engine of growth.
“We will support its key strengths in manufacturing, science and energy. We will make major investments to improve transport connections and improve skills.”
