A debate to discuss whether an elected regional assembly would benefit the region's business community will be held later this month.

The event, to take place next Tuesday at The Riverside, in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, will provide an opportunity for speakers to debate the arguments for and against a North-East Regional Assembly in front of an audience.

It will be chaired by broadcaster and writer Alan Wright.

Those presenting the argument for the assembly are Professor John Tomaney, director of the Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies at Newcastle University, and Ross Forbes, director of the Yes Campaign.

Michael Knowles, chairman of the Campaign for an English Parliament and Sunderland's Neil Heron, director of the No Campaign, will argue against.

Christine Yule, development director of Durham Business Club and organiser of the event, said: "Our aim for the debate is to provide an opportunity for committed and knowledgeable representatives of the opposing views to explain the factual arguments for and against a North-East Regional Assembly, whilst providing the audience with an opportunity to put questions and participate in the debate."

For details, call 0191-388 4488.