Former health secretary Wes Streeting has outlined plans to fast-track major infrastructure projects, including new power plants, wind farms, and data centres, through emergency law changes. In a speech on Tuesday, he will present his proposals to accelerate development and boost economic growth, marking his latest challenge to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer amid a potential Labour leadership contest.
Emergency Legislation for Infrastructure
Streeting's team has already begun drafting bills aimed at bypassing lengthy planning processes. He argues that Parliament can act swiftly, as it did to save British Steel, to secure the nation's future prosperity. The plans would grant projects 'decision in principle' consent through parliamentary bills, with environmental concerns and consultations addressed afterward.
Targeted Projects
The proposals target nationally significant projects like reservoirs, power plants, and transport schemes, which could be exempted from individual planning applications. Streeting also supports stalled North Sea drilling projects Rosebank and Jackdaw, suggesting tax receipts fund cheaper energy measures such as heat pumps and insulation.
High-Skilled Immigration Boost
Streeting will also propose increasing high-skilled immigration, aiming to recruit 20,000 scientists, engineers, and AI experts globally. This move is intended to support the infrastructure push and drive innovation.
The speech comes two days before the Makerfield by-election, where rival challenger Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, seeks to return to Parliament. Streeting's aggressive stance signals a clear bid to reshape Labour's economic policy and leadership direction.
