In this image, the Severn-Wash line is shown in yellow, the Severn-Trent line in blue, the Tees-Exe line in red. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Telegraph cites latest ONS data that the North-South divide gap widens dealing a blow to Chancellor’s plans to build a Northern Powerhouse.

Source: Mapped: London driving UK growth as ‘Northern Powerhouse’ falters – Telegraph

Let’s face it George Osborne is a political showman, albeit not quite in the Donald Trump league. Osborne likes the term ‘Northern Powerhouse’, just like he enjoys being photographed in a hard hat. But Osborne is not an economist by training and profession – he’s a political chancer.

To be successful in promoting regional equality, Osborne would need differential tax rates for different areas and an effective industry strategy that is dovetailed with more effective education and national skills enhancement.

Thoughts?