Greater Manchester Leaders respond to the Autumn Statement

Sir Richard Leese, vice-chairman of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority

Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Vice-Chairman and Lead for Economic Strategy Sir Richard Leese said: “I welcome the Government’s publication of the Northern Powerhouse Strategy, which builds on the work we’ve undertaken with Core City colleagues, and identifies the four key areas of connectivity, skills, innovation and trade as priority areas, fundamental to driving productivity.

"As the Strategy makes clear it is a first step towards establishing a Northern Powerhouse that brings our Northern cities together in a way that makes them much greater than the sum of their parts. We look forward to working with the Government to implement this plan that will help to rebalance our economy.”

GMCA Vice-Chairman and Lead for Skills and Employment Sean Anstee said: “The Chancellor’s Autumn Statement has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the Northern Powerhouse and devolution. The Northern Powerhouse Strategy will help us to improve connectivity, innovation and boost trade.

"I am particularly pleased that this strategy will also renew our focus on improving skills in Greater Manchester and the North of England. Greater Manchester Leaders will study the detail of all today’s announcements and establish exactly what today’s Autumn Statement means for Greater Manchester.”