Politicians are inured to media demands for instant reactions. How nice to find one taking his time. James Alexander has been pondering Michael Heseltine's report on growth for almost a month and discussing it with others. Now he's written to Tarzan with his views. Here they are
As Leader of City of York council, I wanted to write to you about your very thoughtful contribution to the UK growth debate. I have reflected upon the recommendations made in your report and have discussed them with public sector and business leaders in York. I'd like to offer my reaction to your report if I may. I am particularly pleased to write to you as your 1990 leadership bid was one of the reasons why I became interested in politics at such an early age. I admire your work around regeneration and your consistent commitment to localism.
Firstly, I wholeheartedly welcome your commitment to localism: it is proper that towns and cities should take responsibility for creating the environment where businesses can prosper, where local economies can grow and where residents can all benefit from good jobs, incomes, housing and leisure opportunities. To do that requires the skills of both private and public sectors, working in partnership, and by aligning public sector assets with private sector investment. In fact, in York we are working to lead the way in new approaches and innovative thinking with regard to creating a better business environment. I have already created an Economic Infrastructure Fund of £28.5m to collaborate within the Leeds City ...
York ...
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