I’m hoping that by now I will have had the opportunity to meet many of you face to face.

Since taking up the job of Regional Minister last summer I’ve tried hard to get out and about in the region.

But I wanted some means by which I could keep in touch in between those visits.

From now on this newsletter will appear every two months in your inbox.

It will give me the chance to update you on what I’ve been up to here in the North West and on what success I’ve had in pressing regional issues in Whitehall.

Last month saw some big changes in Government Office for the North West.

I’d like to pass on my thanks and best wishes to Keith Barnes who has stepped down as Regional Director after seven successful years.

At the same time I look forward to working with Liz Meek, Keith’s successor and formerly Regional Director at Government Office for London.

In the meantime, please let me know what you think of the newsletter and feel free to pass on to colleagues you feel may be interested in its contents.