Businesses back Yorkshire mayor call

The principal figures at 24 firms, including some of the best known busineses in the area such as Arco, JR Rix and Sons and Wykeland Group, have signed a letter calling for devolution of powers from Whitehall to take place on a regional basis.

The letter says: “We support the concept of a regional Yorkshire Mayor who, working with local Leaders and businesses, will be responsible for the delivery of any devolved powers and who will have credibility to put our case and argue our corner on a national and international basis.”

The Government has promised to give areas significant control over their own affairs where they have clear plans for the local economy that are supported by business and include the adoption of an elected mayor.

The offer has triggered a major debate across Yorkshire over whether the region should strike a single devolution deal with the Government or a series of agreements covering different areas.

A recent letter signed by the Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, the Institute of Directors and the Federation of Small Businesses argued that there should be an elected mayor for the Humber.

West and South Yorkshire authorities are pursuing their own discussions with Ministers.