Residents and business owners across the new North East Combined Authority Region, covering the seven Local Authorities in County Durham, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear have elected the Labour candidate, Kim McGuinness, as their first Metro Mayor.
The new political role is the result of a devolution deal for the North East which will see major funding and decision-making powers handed over from central government in Westminster to the newly elected Mayor.
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) congratulates the incoming Mayor on her election and remains committed to feeding into the Mayoral Combined Authority to ensure the voice of small businesses and the self-employed remains at the heart of policy and decision making.
Reshma Begum, FSB Development Manager for North East England said:
“On behalf of our members and the wider small business and self-employed community, we would like to congratulate Mayor Kim McGuinness on her election as the first Mayor of the newly formed North East Combined Authority.
“This historic devolution deal has been agreed as a result of extensive efforts by our seven local authority leaders and officers, working collaboratively with the regions business leaders as appropriate too. It’s truly a testament to what can be achieved when we work together towards achieving a shared ambition.
“Small businesses and the self-employed are the backbone of our economy, playing a vital role in the success of our region. We at FSB are committed to working with the incoming Mayor and the team around her to champion policies and business support that promote entrepreneurship, innovation, skills, and the vibrancy of our high streets in addition to improving transport and infrastructure.
“We look forward to working collaboratively to build a strong, inclusive and entrepreneurial North East.”
