THE Government must “press hard on the cash accelerator” or risk seeing companies’ interest in the North-East wane, an MP has warned.

Tom Blenkinsop yesterday told the House of Commons it remains imperative the Government brings forward large-scale highway projects.

Mr Blenkinsop, MP for Middlesbrough South and east Cleveland, was speaking after Tesco earlier this week confirmed it intends to increase staff numbers at its Teesport distribution centre.

He said: “I called on Transport Ministers to accelerate the programme for improvements to the A66 and for a new Tees Crossing to allow firms to get goods out on the road quickly.

“Otherwise, firms like Tesco may conclude the uncertainty might hinder their expansion plans.”

Mr Blenkinsop’s call comes after the North East England Chamber of Commerce warned the North-East will not fulfil its potential unless major changes to road, rail and air links are delivered.

The business organisation’s demands include the swift completion of planned upgrades to the A1 and A19, improvements to the East Coast Mainline and better access to Newcastle Airport.