PLANS for a referendum to decide on the creation of a North-west parliament have been backed by nearly three-quarters of people questioned for a survey.

The North West Regional Assembly carried out a telephone poll of 1,004 residents -- and found that 71 per cent supported the proposal.

A poll was carried out to coincide with the end of a consultation exercise conducted by Nick Raynsford, the Minister for Local Government and the Regions, to gauge the popularity of proposals for the region's own parliament.

Of those questioned, 82 per cent felt they belonged to the region, compared to 65 per cent who identified with their county and 70 per cent their district.

Among the reasons those quizzed gave for supporting a North-west parliament were: that it would give the region a greater voice; devolve power from central government; and put power in the hands of people with a better knowledge of the needs of the area.

Councillor Derek Boden, leader of the North West Regional Assembly, said: "This demonstrates the popularity of the Government's regional devolution proposals, and shows the will of the people in the North-west to be among the first to be offered the chance to choose.

"We think that this is the most comprehensive soundings exercise carried out by any English region and shows conclusively the support in the North West for a referendum on elected regional Government."

A NEW survey has revealed the depth of support for a regional parliament with 71 per cent of those questioned replying they backed plans for a referendum.

The telephone poll of 1,004 residents was conducted by the North West Regional Assembly.

the survey sent a clear message that the North West is ready for a referendum.