LABOUR’S prospective parliamentary candidate for Darwen has urged the government to ensure East Lancashire isn’t left behind in the devolution debate.

Will Straw met Labour peer Lord Andrew Adonis to discuss how devolution would help regional growth.

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Lord Adonis said his plans would see £30billion pledged over five years given back to regions to boost economic growth.

Mr Straw said: “People tell me they want the same powers that are being given out to Scotland, London and Manchester. Decisions about what’s best for the future of Darwen should be taken locally rather than in London. And we must correct the extraordinary imbalance in spending between North and South, especially on infrastructure.

“Talking to business leaders here today, it’s clear that more needs to be done. We need greater power, responsibility and budgets to ensure that we have the right workforce and right transport links on our doorstep.

“The Tory government’s current proposals for devolution to the big cities like Manchester might serve them well, butWe need to make sure that East Lancashire doesn’t get left behind.”

Lord Adonis said: “East Lancashire has a proud industrial history and a future of global leading companies excelling in manufacturing and creativity.

“But these Companies need greater support at a local level. That’s why I am proposing that a Labour government should devolve the national budgets for skills, employment support and infrastructure.”

“This would be worth £30billion over the next parliament and help East Lancashire, and many other regions, fulful their true potential.”