Member Article

Breaking: North East devolution back on as five new faces enter mayoral running

The North East’s devolution bid suffered a major blow last week when Gateshead Council decided to pull out of the deal. However, in a surprising turn of events kick-started late last night, it seems things are back on track as five new candidates have reportedly entered the fray.

So just who are these new runners and what do we know about their ties to the North East?

Mike Ashley

The Sports Direct tycoon might be a bit of a marmite character in the region, ie hated in Newcastle but loved in Sunderland, but sources close to Mr Ashley say he sees a mayoral run as the perfect opportunity to ensure unemployment ends for good in the region. Young, old, male, female, skilled and unskilled will all be promised working contracts under his candidacy. Hours of which to be determined…

George Osborne

There’s no question that George loves the North East. Ok, he may have forgotten to mention us in his Budget last month but we know how much he loves our Northern Powerhouse. ‘It’s actually my favourite club in the UK’, George was once overheard saying. With rumours circulating currently over Mr Osborne’s Whitehall future, perhaps now would be the perfect time for the man to drop Downing Street and don a flatcap and whippet. You never know.

Ant & Dec

Perhaps the most surprising news to break, erm last night was it?, was the emerging power struggle between much-loved, Geordie favourites Ant & Dec. One a Labour enthusiast, the other a staunch Tory diehard, it seems inseparable divisions cannot be overcome and independent mayoral runs are set to take place. The longevity of their races is of course being scrutinised with an episode of Saturday Night Takeaway taking precedence tomorrow.

Mr Bdaily

Yes, it’s true. I can confirm the rumours. My hat has been firmly thrown in the ring. Why, you ask? Isn’t it obvious? And no, I don’t mean the fact that there’s barely anyone else and that anyone will do. Rather we need someone loved by all who can pull us all together. Which reminds me, for all of you requesting my fanmail address it is still jamie.hardesty@bdaily.co.uk, that’s correct yes.

An End to Foolishness

We are of course kidding this morning, in fitting with the spirit of the day. Yet rather than continue with the side-splitting humour (comedy is a tough mistress to tame) it’s sadly time to put an end to the laughter. In fact, the essence of this article is far from a joke. Unlike what seems to be going on in our region at present.

Simply put, the faltering in the region over devolution is frustrating, embarrassing and actually quite heartbreaking. A chance exists for the North East to control its future. In all likelihood, this will mean an elected mayor will be appointed. Tru, that remains a debate in itself. However, we’re not even at that stage. Apparently we’re nowhere near being close to it infact!

Businesses in the North East deserve a chance of devolution. We need to put an end to the foolishness. Of course, terms have to be right although realistically speaking, this isn’t a time for idealism. It is a time for pragmatism. Deals must be struck to allow us to move forward and not be forgotten about by London. Who better to determine our collective, collaborative future than the forces existing in this region itself?

We should be at a point of agreeance where we should be talking about candidates or the intricacies of achieving practical, positive steps for the region. Instead it seems that nobody quite knows what is going on! Can we move forward without Gateshead? Should we? I’m not sure. Thankfully I’m not charged with the task of solving such questions. Hopefully that doesn’t hinder my bid…

What do you think? Is North East devolution still possible? Have your say below.