TWO political parties have formed an alliance to push for new powers for the North of England.

The North East Party and Yorkshire First have agreed to work together to campaign for the region to have a "devolved, directly democratic, accountable body".

The parties claim the current government structure is not fit for purpose, with Scotland set to be handed extra powers in light of the referendum No vote while other regions miss out.

Jon Tait, from the North East Party, said: "We need a new Britain that works for all parts, regions and people of the UK.

"An English parliament fails to address our challenges as a country and would not be in the interests of the North. We are working with Yorkshire First to achieve that goal."

Richard Carter, leader of Yorkshire First, added: "In a crisis of democracy and legitimacy, the answer is to involve as many people as possible in the task of building a new UK that is stronger, and truly benefits all parts of our Britain.

"One that represents our interests via elected regional assemblies. That's why we are delighted to work with our colleagues in the North-East."

In a joint statement, the two parties say it is damning indictment that five of the ten poorest areas in northern Europe are in the North of England.

"At the same time Inner London is the richest. Our current arrangements at local, regional and national level are clearly not fit for purpose.

"We need a new Britain that works for all parts, regions and people of the UK. An English parliament fails to address our challenges as a country, and would not be in the interests of the North.

"It is time for seismic change."

The parties say the UK's regions should now consider how they arrange their own affairs.

They want to see the outline of a new UK constitution put to the people before the end of 2017.

"We will seek to build support and work with people from all parties to create a United Kingdom that works for all of our people," the parties added.

The North East Party was launched in May this year by former Labour MP Hilton Dawson.

It intends to contest 12 seats in the region at next year’s general election, funded through membership and donations.