AN elected Parliament for the North West has moved a stage closer to reality with the announcement that a Government Green Paper is expected this summer.
Government proposals would see a 35-strong regional body, elected by proportional representation, with powers to co-ordinate economic development, strategic planning and other key regional functions such as transport and waste.
Legislation is expected to be announced in the first Queen's Speech after the general election. The government proposals have been welcomed by Lord Smith of Leigh, the leader of the North West Regional Assembly, who said: "Leading figures in both public and private sectors will welcome the announcement."
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