Government to continue funding South West powerhouse - despite plans to scrap similar initiatives elsewhere

The Government has agreed to continue funding a partnership aimed at making the West of England a powerhouse, despite looking to scrap similar initiatives elsewhere.

The Great South West provides a unified voice for Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset in Westminster. It also plays a pivotal role in securing investment and driving business growth across the region - and the wider UK economy.

Those involved in the initiative have hailed the announcement, which followed an extensive national consultation on pan-regional partnerships across England.

The consultation saw the Government receive more submissions from the South West than any other English region, with leaders from industry, education, academia and local government highlighting its importance to the UK.

It was feared funding for the Great South West could be axed following chancellor Rachel Reeves' Budget last November.

Karl Tucker, chair of the Great South West Partnership, said: "This announcement is a clear endorsement of the South West’s vital role in delivering national priorities – from energy security and net zero, to defence