WATCH: Sajid Javid says West Midlands metro mayor 'will yield real power'

Criticism has been levelled at the post, with West Midlands' Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson labelling it a 'toothless tiger' and Labour's candidate for the role Sion Simon saying the position needed beefing up.

However, Mr Javid, MP for Bromsgrove, told the Express & Star the metro mayor will wield 'real power'.

He said the mayor would 'decide what is best for the region and how it best fits'.

Mr Javid highlighted the bid for a new Enterprise Zone in Brierley Hill – which could create 6,000 jobs – as an example of regional cooperation. He said: "I think these devolution deals are hugely important for local growth.

"For example Dudley's bid for an Enterprise Zone requires joined-up thinking – particularly around transport in and out of Birmingham.

"That joined-up thinking only comes when you work together."

Mr Javid added: "When there is a mayor in places that will mean more leadership across the region.

"All the mayors, including in the West Midlands, will have power under the new devolved powers.

"They can look at issues like infrastructure, like transport, and like adult skills.

"The mayor will be able to look at that across the region and decide what is best for the region and how it best fits.

"The West Midlands will get an additional £36 million a year over 30 years and use that money as the Combined Authority decides.

"That's real power and only happening because you have got a mayor."

Mr Javid moved to refute suggestions the West Midlands had been over-shadowed by Manchester's and the Northern Powerhouse in the bid for devolution – saying all regions will benefit from the deal.

He said: "Manchester started earlier down this road. It's important to note that it's not either Manchester, Birmingham or the North – they can all do well.

"That requires good leadership and resources.

"We from central Government can provide more resources but we also need good leadership across the regions. That's why I want it to be a Conservative mayor."

Asked if he favoured John Lewis boss Andy Street – who has been mooted as a Tory mayoral candidate – Mr Javid played his cards close to his chest, only saying: "Andy Street has done a fantastic job as chair of the local LEP."

The West Midlands mayor will be elected on May 4, 2017, and will serve a term of three years.