London MP backs bid for Green Bank

Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Simon Hughes spoke out as MPs from across the region united to urge the Government to make this region a base for the bank, which will help fund green infrastructure projects. He said: “As a London MP, I am very clear that the Green Investment Bank should be located not in London, but in one of the other parts of the country.

“I cannot be explicit as there are also other bids. It is definitely right that the GIB should not be located in London, however.”

About 20 towns and cities are bidding to host the bank, which MPs argue should be located in the north to contribute towards the Government’s drive to rebalance the economy.

MPs from across Yorkshire say Leeds has a strong case to be the host because of its sizeable financial services industry and the large number of green energy projects across the region.

Business Minister Mark Prisk said: “No decisions have yet been made on the location of the bank. We will ensure a fair and transparent process when we decide on the location. All interested parties will be given an equal opportunity to submit an expression of interest, so that due consideration can be given to all submissions to ensure a full and equitable process.”

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