New PM Burnham Meets Big Business Bosses to Talk Growth
Andy Burnham will meet the bosses of BP, Shell, HSBC, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, BT, Vodafone and Rolls-Royce at Number 10 on Monday to talk about growing the economy.
Downing Street said the meeting brings the prime minister together with leaders from energy, banking, shops, telecoms and manufacturing. Mr Burnham, who took over from Sir Keir Starmer, is expected to set out his plan for business and growth. BBC
He said Britain needs a "culture shift" in how it does business. People who take a business risk should get backing from government, he said. Anyone with a good idea should feel sure of support to make it real, he said.
He said the government would be "a partner for growth to make every part of Britain better off".
The broader context here is who is invited. The list covers firms most affected by decisions on energy, infrastructure and high-street demand.
Mr Burnham used simpler words for business readers. According to Bloomberg, he said Britain needs a "culture shift" to make starting a company easier, and said he would back new ideas. Bloomberg
He said local leaders should have power to work with firms. He said his devolution plans, moving power out of London, can help deliver much-needed infrastructure. Reuters
Mr Burnham was mayor of Greater Manchester, the elected leader for that area, before he returned to Parliament. He was the favourite to replace Mr Starmer as prime minister. He said his plan builds on his work as mayor, and he has vowed to grow the economy by rewiring the British state.
The broader context here is growth decided locally as well as in London. The plan would pass decisions on planning, transport and training through mayors and council groups, with Number 10 bringing people together like a host.
Looking at what this means for firms and government, the test will be detail. Bosses will want to hear how partnership works day to day. That means permits, power connections, planning times and whether local bodies deliver. Warm words on Monday will count less than those facts.
