'˜Leeds is very much open for business post-Brexit vote'

The Government's Northern Powerhouse vision might have gone on the back burner post referendum - but Leeds is still very much open for business.

So says Leeds City Council leader Judith Blake in the wake of Brexit.

Asked if the Conservative Government’s post-referendum problems meant the end of chancellor George Osborne’s much-hyped Northern Powerhouse and regional devolution plans, she said: “It might be.”

But she added: “We are obviously going to have to pull together all the partners who have been part of putting the devolution deal together and press on.

Councillor Judith Blake. PIcture: James Hardisty

“It’s very clear to me that one of the elements in the vote to leave was the disillusionment and dissatisfaction with a remote national political elite, and decisions being made in London that have a profound effect on places like Leeds and the North as a whole.

“And I think this reaffirms our determination to get more resources and more powers.”

Coun Blake has called for an urgent meeting with business leaders in the city to set down a clear post Brexit plan - and reassure major stakeholders and the public.