YOUR Business Press report about a referendum on an elected regional assembly (March 4) is somewhat misleading in three respects.

Firstly, it is questionable how much business wants a referendum. Our research suggests that a small majority of companies in North Yorkshire support the idea of a referendum.

Much more clearly, they also say that about twice as many would vote against having an assembly than would vote for one.

They seem to want a referendum just to dispose of the idea.

Secondly, you say an assembly would be the "death knell" for North Yorkshire County Council.

This does not necessarily follow.

The Government has said only that it would get rid of the two-tier system of local government in North Yorkshire.

This would be replaced by one or more all-purpose unitary authorities as happens now in places like York and the East Riding. But it would be for the Boundary Committee for England to determine how many councils would be created in North Yorkshire.

It may be just one all-purpose county council - or two or more based on some division of North Yorkshire.

Thirdly, you talk about a "Yorkshire Parliament".

Forget it!

The Government has been very vague about functions, but few believe it would have any real power. All the opinion polls are clear that it will add to costs and bureaucracy.

The county council has also called for a proper debate. We hope the Evening Press will cover it fully.

Meanwhile, there should be no jumping to conclusions.

Coun David Ashton,

Chairman,

North Yorkshire County Council,

County Hall,

Northallerton.

Updated: 10:17 Wednesday, March 19, 2003