§ Q54. Mr. Ripponasked the Prime Minister if she is able to give an assurance that there are no plans to withdraw from Newcastle-upon-Tyne some or all of the regional Government offices, including those of Industry, Environment and Transport.
§ The Prime MinisterAs my right hon. and learned Friend will know, a recent study team scrutiny of the joint Department of the Environment/Department of Transport regional offices carried out in consultation with Sir Derek Rayner recommended the merger of the Northern and Yorkshire and Humberside regions of these Departments to create a new North-East region with its headquarters in Leeds and a substantial presence in Newcastle. The Government are considering those proposals in the light of the many comments received and we hope to make an announcement shortly.