The comments from the orginaisation's chief executive Tom Riordan follow claims from Attercliffe MP Clive Betts that Yorkshire Forward is reviewing its support for the arena in Leeds because of concerns it may take business away from Sheffield Arena.

Mr Riordan said: "The position is unchanged. The Yorkshire Forward board approved a decision to support the Leeds Arena project.

"The process is not on hold. The process is moving forward as it was previously."

Mr Riordan said an economic impact assessment was carried out a couple of years ago for the whole of the region.

That information was currently being "refreshed" to concentrate on the potential economic impact on Sheffield.

He added: "We don't believe that there would a hugely disadvantageous impact to Sheffield Arena, but we are obviously confirming that and testing that through the extra work that we are doing."

For more of the political fallout, see tomorrow's YEP or check the website.