THE first few steps for gauging public support for home rule in the region will be taken today.

Tony Flynn, chairman of the North-East Assembly, will launch the consultation document, called Let the People Decide: Your Region, Your Say.

The launch is part of the Government's soundings exercise to test the level of interest in holding a referendum on whether or not to have elected regional assemblies.

The North-East is favourite to become the first region with home rule, but responses to today's consultation document will be critical in influencing the Government's decision on which regions will move ahead.

The Government is specifically seeking the views of North-East Assembly members, local authorities, business interests, the voluntary sector, MPs and MEPs.

The Regional Assemblies (Preparations) Bill was published in the Queen's Speech, in November.

Gauging pubic reaction is the first phase, but if interest is low it could end the North- East's assembly aspirations.

If the consultation is positive, the next step is a referendum along with a review of local government which could mean abolishing county and district councils.