THE new Northern Powerhouse Minister to going on his first tour of the area today since his appointment – but is not stepping foot in the North East.

Andrew Percy will be joined by Commercial Secretary to the Treasury Jim O'Neill while visiting Hull, Manchester and Liverpool on his first official tour of his patch.

The MP for Brigg and Goole and the Isle of Axholme was appointed to the role, replacing Stockton South MP James Wharton, in a Governmental reshuffle earlier this month.

Mr Percy said: “Building the Northern Powerhouse is a long-term government priority and central to our plans to rebalance the economy.

“As a proud Northerner, I am determined to ensure that people in every part of the North – from large cities to small rural communities – enjoy greater control over their lives and stronger, more sustainable economic growth.

“That’s why this Government will continue to support major investments to unlock the potential of the North and ensure that every area benefits from a growing economy.”

The pair have been tasked with devolving greater power from Whitehall to town halls and with the aim of creating jobs and stronger economic growth.

Lord O’Neill added: “Making our great northern towns and cities a powerhouse for the economy once again is the reason I joined government, and there is evidence everywhere you look that our plans have already made a real impact."