
New research has revealed that relatively poor health in the North of England is affecting the local economy.
The Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) study said the government should try to improve the region's health as part of its industrial strategy.
It stated life expectancy and productivity is lower in the North than in the rest of England. The study’s authors have called for an increase in NHS funding in the area to be spent on prevention services and health science research.
The government has countered the findings, saying it has "a strong track record" on health.