Sheffield leaders demand meeting with Prime Minister to discuss Brexit

The leaders of five combined authorities said it was 'absolutely vital' the North is heard during negotiations to leave the EU as its population is greater than London's and its economy is larger that those of Scotland and Wales.

They invited Mrs May to a meeting in Greater Manchester 'at her earliest convenience'.

A letter signed by combined authority leaders including Steve Houghton for Sheffield, along with representatives for West Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Liverpool and the North East, said: "Your efforts to meet leaders outside London is commendable.

"However, the North of England has long had concerns that we are being ignored, caught between an economically and politically powerful London and an increasingly politically important Scotland.

"As we negotiate our exit from the European Union, you have made clear that you believe in having an approach and negotiation objectives that include the whole of the United Kingdom.

"It is absolutely vital that the voice of the North of England is heard loud and clear during the Brexit negotiations.

"The North of England has a population greater than London and almost three times that of Scotland. Our economy is significantly larger than Wales' or Scotland's.

"Accordingly, we would like to invite you to meet with us at your earliest convenience to discuss our role within the Brexit negotiations and how we can work together for the benefit of the North."