12.07.16
Manchester and Liverpool promise new partnership following Brexit vote
Two of the biggest devolved administrations in the north of England have promised to work together to promote growth in their regions following the UK’s vote to leave the European Union.
Interim mayor of Manchester Tony Lloyd and mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson said they would work together following concerns that the UK’s vote to leave the EU has cast doubt on the political progress and funding of devolution deals.
Representatives of Manchester and Liverpool City Regions will meet soon to discuss the details of a concordat, to be signed by both combined authorities to preserve their prosperity.
Lloyd, who wrote recently for PSE about Manchester’s devolution deal, said: “Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester have great histories and together were the economic powerhouse of the world.
“Both cities have made great progress recently, creating jobs and great new places to visit and enjoy, and we can't put this progress at risk with poor negotiations with the EU.”
Anderson added that the people and businesses in the Liverpool City Region are very concerned about how Brexit could affect them and “we need to give them leadership in this difficult time”.
“Whatever happens, it’s important that we work together to provide the leadership our regions need,” he said. “Business and people alike are worried about the future, and we are both giving commitments on behalf of our greater areas to be welcoming cities with a focus on industry and respect. That includes working people who expect pay and conditions not to be undermined by leaving the European Union.”
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