How will they hear our voice?

Oct 26 2005 By Alistair Arkley, The Journal

You might recall that a few weeks ago I highlighted the "black hole" in regional leadership as a result of the North-East elected assembly referendum and the need to examine ways in which we could create something with the breadth of representation - and independence - for the vital Voice of the North-East role.

Which made me a little surprised to read the recent Journal headline: ONE says it is filling the assembly no-vote gap.

I do recognise that, as the regional development agency, One NorthEast has a crucial role to play in driving forward economic regeneration and, as its chief executive Alan Clarke pointed out, it plays an important role in arguing the region's case with government "behind the scenes".

However, behind the scenes is a lot different to centre stage. What remains unfilled is that role of a truly independent voice with the mandate to speak free from the restrictions which apply to those who depend on ministers and civil servants for their existence.

This debate is becoming ever-more important because of what I am sure many feel is starting to look like regionalisation by the back door.

What's the evidence? A couple of examples: the future of Learning and Skills Councils and the Police.

In both cases we are told by government that there is a need to "review" their structures and in both there appear to be strong pressures to "regionalise" their operations.

But how do we know what the region really thinks about the idea?

I suspect that if people begin to feel regionalisation is being imposed from the centre, many will feel pretty cynical about whether the referendum votes they cast were worth anything.

My experience as chairman of the Northern Business Forum, on the board of One NorthEast and as chairman of the Tees Valley Partnership convinces me that we can only create a really strong and vibrant North-East if we make use of the resources and talents within all parts of the region.

Sometimes those promoting the regional case don't help to promote a feeling of inclusion.

Take the recent inaugural North East Tourism Awards. I strongly support the concept, but, of the awards, seven went to Tyne and Wear attractions, five to Northumberland, three to Durham, and just one to Tees Valley! I'm sure everything was fair and above board, but it hardly helps to promote a feeling of equality.

Alistair Arkley is chairman of the Northern Business Forum and chairman of New Century Inns.