Northern quotas for boards denied

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Ministers have denied reports of plans to introduce quotas for the number of northerners on public bodies' boards.

It was reported that ministers wanted to bring in "regional targeting" to avoid boards being too London-centric.

The Government Equalities Office said they wanted more northerners on such boards but "had no plans to introduce new rules or regional quotas".

"We are simply saying we want a diverse mix of people and talent from around the country," a spokesman said.

"Through the campaign we are running to get more women, ethnic minorities and disabled people to apply for public appointments; we hope to attract interest from people in different regions.

"Public bodies with a mix of people and talents make better decisions for our communities."