Trains, jobs and growth: The new powers Andy Burnham wants and what he could get

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Andy Burnham is set to get new powers as the government unveils its plans for a 'devolution revolution' across the country. The Greater Manchester mayor is expected to get more control over rail services in the city-region, allowing him to bring trains into the London-style public transport network he is building.

Mayors across the country are also set to get new powers over planning. Local leaders have already been told that they will play a bigger role in getting people back to work as the government transforms 'outdated' Jobcentres.

But Mr Burnham has expressed concerns that mayors will not be given enough power to fill skills shortages. READ MORE: Saudis to invest millions in Greater Manchester with 'world first' graphene deal It comes as the government publishes its English devolution white paper on Monday (December 16).

As well as handing new powers to regional mayors, the document is expected to set out a blueprint for the biggest restructure of local government in generations.