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North East devolution deal taken 'off the table' by government

Communities Secretary Sajid Javid said he is "very disappointed" but the local decision will be respected.

The seven councils which make up the North East Combined Authority voted 4-3 against the devolution deal earlier this week.

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NECC react to Devo Deal scrapping

The North East Chamber of Commerce have reacted to the news that plans for a devolution deal covering the North East are now off the table.

The announcement was made by Communities Secretary Sajid Javid.

They say it's 'bad news' for the North East economy.

“We’re at a loss to understand why, after a year of negotiations, it has not been possible to strike a deal. It’s extremely disappointing and bad news for the North East and UK economy. We sincerely hope something can be salvaged and will play whatever part we can to help. It’s positive that a deal is going forward in Tees Valley though and we look forward to continuing our constructive relationship with the combined authority there as that’s implemented.”

– Statement by Ross Smith, Director of Policy, North East England Chamber of Commerce

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