THE jury is out on the proposed regional assemblies for the North-East and Yorkshire.

We support calls for a stronger voice for the northern regions but until questions are answered about the powers the assemblies would have, and where they would be based, it would be premature to give our unconditional backing.

Another question mark hanging over regional government is whether it will attract high calibre figures beyond the normal political circles. Will it be a talking shop for run of the mill politicians? Or will it be a dynamic body made up of strong characters with additional skills and experience to offer?

Sir John Hall's declaration that he intends to stand for election to the North-East assembly, if October's referendum gives the go-ahead, is certainly a boost for the "yes" campaign.

If the notion of regional government can whet the appetite of someone with Sir John's entrepreneurial track record, others will start to pay more attention to the possibilities.

Give us more candidates of that quality, evidence that regional government will make a real difference, and a cast iron guarantee that the North-East assembly will be based in Durham City, and the decision will be much easier to call.