Is Regional Policy a Waste of Time?

Published: June 3, 2013, 8 p.m.

b"

The gap between English north and south is growing. But does government have the answer? In the north-east of England, Alison Wolf discovers why 'regional policy' may be a waste of time. Does better infrastructure or state support for 'key' industries make a real difference? But there's a twist. Instead of everyone heading from north to south, there may just be a move back in the other direction. She discovers that individuals chasing quality of life, not government pushing its policies, will be what really decides the regions' future.

Presenter: Professor Alison Wolf\\nProducer: Chris Bowlby\\nEditor: Richard Vadon.

"