As the economic harm that it has done becomes ever clearer, all but the most die-hard Tory Brexiteers are increasingly prepared to admit that Brexit was a mistake. Trade with the Europe has slumped, productivity is down, and there are 4,000 fewer European doctors working in the NHS.

The Chancellor and Prime Minister need a plan to counter figures showing lower growth after the hit to EU trade.

New Tory MPs have promised to transform the region, but its greatest threat will come in days, when Britain leaves the EU.