UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham/Image: Reuters
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has confirmed that his Government’s 10-year plan for Britain will be presented to Parliament before the Christmas recess, setting a deadline for a strategy that has faced questions over its ambition and the policies it will deliver.
Badenoch also criticised last month’s Budget, describing it as a “do-nothing Budget” and accusing the Government of postponing major decisions, including those concerning defence funding, until the spending review. She said there was still no clarity on when that review would take place. Burnham said the strategy would include a “compelling” vision for reindustrialisation, but Labour MPs representing areas with a history of industrial decline have raised concerns about the Government’s approach.
A delegation from the group is expected to meet Cabinet Office minister Sally Jameson to discuss its concerns and press the Government for more concrete proposals.
Because he lacked a vision of his own, badenoch said Burnham had entered Downing Street promising to reverse 40 years of neoliberalism, but asked whether he needed Boston Consulting Group to write the plan.
Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Burnham said the document would provide the country with long-term leadership and stability. His commitment came after Tory leader Kemi Badenoch questioned whether the Prime Minister had a clear vision for the country and challenged his reliance on external consultants to develop the strategy.
His announcement also marked a shift from his earlier suggestion that the timetable could extend into next year.