Our response to the Prime Minister's announcement on Northern England

Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:

“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.

“Firms are keen to see a devolution framework from the Government, which ensures the majority of people are covered by a devolution deal in the next five years.”