Theresa May's new government remains committed to the Northern Powerhouse, Ministers say.

The project to boost the economy of the north of England was a flagship scheme of former Chancellor George Osborne.

His departure in Mrs May's reshuffle raised doubts about its future.

But Commercial Secretary to the Treasury Jim O’Neill and Northern Powerhouse Minister Andrew Percy have reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the project.

Their comments come ahead of the first official tour of the North by Mr Percy since his appointment. He was today due to visit Hull, Manchester and Liverpool to hear for himself how devolving greater power from Whitehall to town halls and greater investment is leading to the creation of jobs and stronger economic growth. Officials in Whitehall remain in talks over a so-called 'devo deal' for Cumbria.

Mr Percy, the MP for Brigg and Goole, said: "Building the Northern Powerhouse is a long-term government priority and central to our plans to rebalance the economy.

"As a proud northerner, I am determined to ensure that people in every part of the North – from large cities to small rural communities – enjoy greater control over their lives and stronger, more sustainable economic growth.

"That’s why this government will continue to support major investments to unlock the potential of the North and ensure that every area benefits from a growing economy."