CAMPAIGNERS for a north west regional assembly are calling for a referendum date to be set immediately.

Those in favour of an elected body say that the Government's promise of a vote "before too long" is not good enough.

Local and regional government minister Nick Raynsford this week stated that no date would be set until a new model for voting had been worked out.

The announcement follows an Electoral Commission investigation into June's all-postal elections, which concluded that the system had to be made more secure.

Recommendations were also made for the return of polling stations.

A referendum planned for November was cancelled in the light of concerns about electoral fraud and distribution of ballot papers.

The "Yes! for the Northwest" group say the Government is now using voting methods as a stalling tactic.

Leader of the North West Regional Assembly, Bury Coun Derek Boden welcomed the Government's commitment to elections, but said the Government needed to be clearer on when any vote would take place.

"The last minute delay to the referendum caused a great deal of uncertainty in the north west.

"It is now absolutely vital that the Government puts an end to the shadow boxing and allows north west people to finally have their say."

A debate about an elected assembly for the region takes place tomorrow at Bury Met (18 Sep) at 11am.

Speaking in favour will be Coun Boden, while speaking against will be Manchester Blackley MP Graham Stringer.