No because our friends in the North East scuppered the idea of English Regional Assemblies and City Mayors with clout some years back.
Very sensible, they clearly saw the writing on the wall: more jumped-up politicians and bureaucrats, higher taxation, more cutbacks and nothing positive to show for it.
Not another level of artificial political constructs, please!
We've seen the consequences of this with the various council "reorganisations" over the last 50 years.
I see that the 3 main party political leaders have pledged jointly to give the Scottish parliament more powers in the event of a 'No' vote, including on taxation. If that includes the iniquitous and damaging APD, then I'm certain the Scots would decide to abolish it or at least significantly reduce the rates, which could prove disastrous for long haul routes from MAN in particular, but also for NCL and even BHX.
Yes this could create a pig's breakfast. NCL would suffer, not sure about MAN and LBA, think BHX would not be affected.
Under the current terms of devolution, the Scottish executive already has the power to vary income tax by +/- 3% compared to the UK rate.
This power has never been used. Perhaps there's a good reason for it (?).
It would be reassuring to think that sustained pressure is being applied by MAN and North West business leaders on the Chancellor, not only regarding the present situation on APD but on the increased threat if Scotland is allowed to adopt its own policy.
It needs sustained pressure from
all UK business leaders, we need to get rid of this damaging and iniquitous tax.