GEORGE Osborne sought to stress that his flagship project aims to do more than improve transport links by hailing universities as “the jewel in the crown of northern cities”.

Speaking at a Westminster lunch yesterday, Mr Osborne said: “We are looking at bringing great science and learning to our northern universities.

“The jewel in the crown of these northern cities is the strength of the universities and the strength of their teaching hospitals.

“And, in the Autumn Statement, we’ll have more to say about the investment we can make in that and in the transport links.”

The chancellor made his strongest commitment yet to trying to end London’s dominance of the nation’s economy, if he is returned to Downing Street.

He described the capital as “an incredible global asset”, but added: “it’s equally true that London threatens to dominate our economy more and more if we don’t do something about it.

“I think we address it not by pulling London down as some would suggest, but by building the rest up. And that is what I am seeking to do with the initiative I describe as the northern powerhouse.”

But Mr Osborne made it clearer than ever that in order to grab a Manchester-style devolution package, West Yorkshire must accept a cross-border metro mayor.

The plan has provoked controversy in the district with strong opposition from some local council leaders who oppose both mayors and being told what to do.

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