LANCASTER'S MP is to continue campaigning for the city to be the new 'capital' of the North West.

Hilton Dawson says a plan to develop devolved government for the North West of England is 'the most fundamentally important issue' facing the region this year.

He believes it is absolutely essential to bring the huge decisions which are being made about investment, planning, transport and regeneration in the region under local control.

And he will be fighting both for devolution to go ahead - and for Lancaster to be at the heart of it.

In a bulletin issued this week, Hilton says: "We must establish a strong, distinct voice for the North West and re-organise local Government to bring together vital functions such as housing and social services within unitary local authorities.

"I will be campaigning with individuals and organisations across the political spectrum for a 'yes' vote in the autumn's referendum - and if we are successful I will then be seeking to persuade the Government that the elected assembly should be based in Lancaster."

o Hilton was due to host a visit to the House of Commons by young people from Ripley St Thomas School, Lancaster, today (Thursday).

He was also due to meet with Children's Minister Margaret Hodge to discuss the Children's Fund in Lancashire following the announcement that Lancaster is to get £1.6 million capital funding for new children's centre provision.