IT is telling that the principal proponent of regional assemblies in the North has absolutely no idea of what they might cost.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, on a whistle-stop tour through Yorkshire and the North-East last Friday, was surprisingly candid on this point when speaking to our reporter about the great project.

Other matters, however, did not get the same treatment and those concerned about the impact of regional government on areas at the margins of the assemblies planned for the North-East and Yorkshire will be none the wiser.

One thing Mr Prescott was convinced about was that change was necessary. But his argument seemed strong on aspirational generalities and short on easily understandable specifics.

He would say nothing about the fears many in rural areas have about being dominated by the influence of the urban areas.

He would not be drawn either on the crucial issue of cash. Would Whitehall pass down to the assemblies sufficient money to give them power to make a real difference, as opposed to being grandiose talking shops for political poseurs?

He would also not elaborate on what was so wrong with the existing structure of local government that merited it being swept away

That is now the challenge for the regional assembly Yes campaigners. How can they convince people that these assemblies - with their as yet unknown costs and powers - are worth the upheaval in our local councils that will come with them?

Nothing Mr Prescott said on Friday convinces us he will win the argument.