Bradford East MP David Ward has called on the Business Secretary to ensure Yorkshire has strong, economic leadership.

The Secretary of State, Vince Cable, has given evidence to the Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee, of which Mr Ward is a member.

Mr Ward asked the senior Lib Dem if he had concerns about the ability of the English regions to compete for investment with London and other nations of the UK.

He said: “Following the abolition of Regional Development Agencies, there is still a strong need for leadership to drive economic development in Yorkshire.

“London has a very powerful voice in terms of attracting inward investment, as does Scotland through Scottish Enterprise.

“We need to make sure that the English regions do not get left behind in a post-RDA environment.”