York chamber boss tells politicians to 'set aside rivalries' over devolution

In a speech last night Ed Everard, president of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce said the lack of progress over a deal for West and North Yorkshire in the past year was mired in “tribalism” with the debate now seeming to be “solely be about which political party will hold the reins of power”.

Speaking at the chamber’s annual dinner at York’s National Railway Museum, Mr Everard also expressed concern over a lack of affordable housing in the city, which he said was prohibitive to businesses when recruiting staff.

Mr Everard said: “It is now 12 months since I stood here and asked that our politicians come together to develop a devolution deal which will support the economic growth of our region. Whilst I understand this is challenging it is extremely disappointing that it seems we are no further forward, indeed it feels like we have regressed as tribalism takes hold.

“The chamber remains committed to devolution, which I believe is about providing access to finance and decision making over those matters which will help grow the economy.

“Sadly, devolution now seems to solely be about which political party will hold the reins of power. On behalf of the business community I implore our politicians, both local and national, to set aside petty rivalries and come together for the greater good.”

Mr Everard’s comments echo those of his counterpart Andy Caton at Bradford Chamber of Commerce, who last year excoriated politicians over the lack of a settlement which he described as an “enduring disappointment”.

So far Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and the Tees Valley have all reached settlements which could see them handed control over the millions of pounds of devolved spending, with a tentative deal for South Yorkshire also set to go through. However a deal for the rest of Yorkshire has yet to be reached amid partisan in-fighting.

Elsewhere Mr Everard said the housing situation in York required attention.

“The ongoing battle over housing allocations as well as the provision of affordable housing will limit the options for young people and graduates to remain in the city.

“Access to talent is a real challenge for our members in the city, and if we are to provide opportunities for the next generation they need to be able to live within easy access of the jobs employers are seeking to fill.”