Minister makes pledge to help Yorkshire

Jan 29 2008 by Emma Davison, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

THE new Regional Minister for Yorkshire has promised to deliver economic success and social inclusion in the region.

Rosie Winterton (pictured) has taken over the role from Caroline Flint.

The MP, who is also a transport minister, said she was determined to create a stronger regional dimension to the Government’s work and tackle economic under-performance in parts of the North.

She added that environmental issues would be at the forefront of her agenda.

Ms Winterton said: “I am no stranger to the many and varied opportunities, issues and cultures of the Yorkshire and the Humber region.

“It has many strengths, but I want to find out how it can do more, and how I can help, to make sure all parts of the region can enjoy the benefits of economic success and be able to prosper.

“I am really looking forward to working closely together with the range of public, private, voluntary and community organisations at local and regional level to hear what they have to say about the things that affect them in their work and their daily lives.”

The MP, who spent four years at the Health Department, was appointed Transport Minister in June last year.

She will continue this role as well as her new position as minister for Yorkshire and Humberside.

Ms Winterton added: “My role will be to champion those interests and concerns and represent those particular regional needs to Government, promote co-operation across the region and to help all communities achieve their full potential.

“I want to make sure there is a close dialogue between the public sector organisations that plan and deliver economic and enterprise strategies and the people and businesses who need and use them.”