Healey calls for local power shift in UK growth strategy

John Healey has outlined a proposed UK economic growth strategy that would give local leaders and businesses a larger role in shaping the country’s economic future.

In extracts released by the Treasury ahead of his speech on the economy, Healey said Britain’s growth story should be “written in more places”. He framed growth through outcomes including new jobs, business contracts and export orders, rather than economic figures alone.

Healey said the approach followed the prime minister’s diagnosis of past economic failures and required “a fundamental shift” in where power sits. Central government, he said, should act as a strategic enabler rather than add complexity and red tape.

He said No 10 North and the Treasury had a joint mission to remove obstacles so local leaders and businesses could work together to improve growth and productivity.

The stated aims include creating conditions for greater investment and business profitability, supported by an active and accountable state at all levels. The extracts do not specify which barriers, policies or investments would be prioritised.