Hull Commission Round-table endorses report, calls for speedy resolution of new way forward for Hull and East Riding
MORE than 30 business leaders endorsed the Hull Commission’s final report, which was published last week.
Drawn from the public and community sectors, they discussed the independent report's findings on Friday (January 15).
They endorsed the Commission’s recommendation that a fresh joint approach to economic development and local government organisation is needed in Hull and the East Riding to manage the two areas as one system with a new outward looking approach.
The group was also very supportive of the Commission’s concern to make the most of the economic opportunities of the Humber as the Energy Estuary and gateway to Europe, and to ensure that Hull and the East Riding stay together in any future devolved arrangements.
The business voice was as one in seeing the Humber as the key economic asset of the region. There was also a clear wish that the area should in future look outward to the national and international stage whilst also respecting local community identity, ensuring that the area develops positively for all who live, work and study here.
There was real concern that Yorkshire as a whole is missing out by not coming to an agreement with government about future devolution arrangements. The group wanted local politicians to exhibit a greater sense of urgency and to work together to find a positive way forward.
The chair of the Commission, Tom Martin said: "I was delighted at the response from local leaders and the tone of the discussion at the meeting. While there are some points of debate about what would be best for Hull and the East Riding there was a real sense that everyone round the table was there to help move things forward.
The report we published last week marks the end of the Commission’s work, but I hope that this group, together with politicians from Hull City Council and the East Riding will work together with a sense of urgency to develop a positive way forward for the area".
