Local leaders in Greater Manchester are poised to take control of an integrated £6bn health and social care budget from 2016, it has emerged.

News of the groundbreaking devolution deal comes ahead of an anticipated Friday announcement from chancellor George Osborne signalling agreement for NHS England to transfer to local politicians budgetary decision-making for primary and secondary care.

The integration package, aimed at easing pressure on hospitals is expected to include spending on hospitals, GP surgeries and drop in centres.