THE government outlined plans to give more powers to city regions like Greater Manchester and create a “Northern powerhouse” during the state opening of Parliament.

Measures read out by the Queen during her customary speech in Parliament explained how Prime Minister David Cameron will introduce legislation to provide for the devolution of powers to cities with “elected metro mayors” and help to build a “Northern Powerhouse.”

The plan will result in powers for areas like housing, transport and health being devolved to city regions like Greater Manchester, with a single accountable mayor set to govern the region.

The Queen’s speech also outlined a ban on any rises in income tax, national insurance and VAT for the next five years and the provision of 30 hours of free childcare for three and four year olds by 2017.

Newly elected Bolton West MP, Conservative Chris Green said it was an "honour" to be present for the important event.

He added: "I was really pleased to hear such a positive speech about our manifesto and plans to deliver the services that people depend upon.

"The most important thing about the plans laid out is that they are fundamental to securing our economic recovery."

The Conservatives also promised to push for reform of the European Union and confirmed that there will be an in/out referendum on Britain’s membership of the EU by the end of 2017.

Proposals for a British Bill of Rights were also outlined, which the government wants to bring forward to replace the Human Rights Act, although a period of consultation is set to take place on the issue.

There were also promises to tackle extremism, cap the amount families can receive in benefits and create a seven-day operational National Health Service as well as a vow to introduce a blanket ban on drugs known as legal highs.

The Prime Minister also confirmed his policy of giving tenants of housing associations, such as Bolton at Home, the right to buy their homes at a discounted price.

Bolton at Home chief executive Jon Lord said there are concerns about the policy, adding: “These are not public sector properties, they are private companies, so the idea that the government can force a private company to sell its assets is certainly a bit iffy, we need to hear more detail about what is being proposed."

Labour MP David Crausby, who represents the Bolton North East constituency, said he felt the speech was “a bit thin”.

He added: “It was quite predictable and you don’t need to pass legislation on things like not raising tax levels — just don’t do it.

On the issue of devolution, Mr Crausby added: “I think we need a referendum on devolution and who should be mayor rather than the political elite agreeing what our constitution should be.”