DEVOLUTION for West Yorkshire has moved a step closer after key talks in the region today.

Formal negotiations for transferring extra powers and funding from Westminster began, with a deal now expected to be agreed in six weeks times.

After the talks, which were held with leaders at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, cabinet minister for the Northern Powerhouse, Jake Berry said: “I am delighted to confirm that we have now fired the starting gun on formal devolution negotiations in West Yorkshire.

“We will now work our socks off over the coming weeks with a view to agreeing a deal in time for the Budget in March.

“While positive progress is being made in West Yorkshire and Sheffield City Region, I will also ensure that no area in the Northern Powerhouse is left behind in the dash for devolution.”

Ahead of the meeting, West Yorkshire leaders said: “We are ready to work quickly to secure an agreement which ensures the City Region is in the best possible position to improve the quality of life of our communities in the years to come.”

Devolution would mean more responsibility for the region over local services - and the creation of an elected mayor.

The budget is on March 11.