On Monday, we enter a new era for the Labour Party and for the country, when our new Leader Andy Burnham becomes Prime Minister. We’ve laid some strong foundations and have done some good Labour things in government already lifting children out of poverty, ending no-fault evictions, day one rights to sick pay, increasing wages, amongst them.
Andy Burnham's Vision for a Radical Shift of Power
Andy Burnham’s vision of a radical shift of power around the country away from Westminster alongside a bold rewiring of the economy is a plan I think Mirror readers will back. For too long power has been over centralised with the important things in life - water, energy, transport, housing - run in the interests of shareholders and private interests instead of being affordable essentials. Why shouldn't the essentials be run in the interests of ordinary people, not profit. For example, there’s no use creating jobs in nearby cities, if people from our towns don’t have the means or public transport to get to them.
Success of the Bee Network in Greater Manchester
Without question, the transformation of the Bee network and buses in Greater Manchester has been a huge success. For decades buses were privatised leading to expensive, polluting buses competing to operate only on the profitable and popular routes. Now back under public control, we have a £2 bus fare cap, free bus passes for 16-18 year olds, new routes and better connections. Now Labour’s candidates for the GM Mayor, the fantastic Bev Craig, is pledging to extend free bus passes to all 11-18 years olds. These are big cost of living measures as well as connecting young people to courses, jobs, friends, family, activities and opportunities. This is what pushing power out and taking more public ownership can do.
A Different Approach to Politics
As Deputy Leader of the Labour Party I also share Andy’s determination that we need a different approach to politics and a different culture. There’s too much division, too much point scoring, always looking for what divides us, rather than what we can do together. We need a Labour government of all the talents, representing our broad church movement, all parts of the UK and that looks like our diverse country, living the same lives. Westminster needs an overhaul too. Parliament is arcane and difficult to understand. Making our country and our politics work better for ordinary people is in all our interests. Andy has begun to set out a big bold vision of hope about how the country can change. It's one I’m right behind.
Anne Widdecombe Murder Shows We Must Come Together
Ann Widdecombe’s murder is shocking. Whilst we didn’t agree politically, I respected her forthright approach and ability to have a laugh at her own expense. As we did following the murders of Jo Cox and Sir David Ames, it's right that we come together across political divides to lower the temperature not fuel the hate we see far too much of. Politics today is too polarised, personalised and can be quite toxic. We must urgently tackle online and social media platforms’ way of operating which heighten controversial and extreme content. There will always be rough and tumble between politicians, but we must get back to disagreeing agreeably. It’s in everyone’s interests that those in public life feel safe and able to interact with the public.
Help for Families This Summer
As the Summer holidays start, I hope the help that Labour is giving will take off some of the pressure on family budgets, and allow parents and kids to spend quality time together. Cinema trips, amusement park visits, and children’s meals in restaurants will all be cheaper as a result of a temporary cut to VAT. And for the whole of August, kids aged 15 and under in England, will be able to travel by bus for free.
Three Lions Deserve a Warm Welcome
Like so many, I’ve been glued to the World Cup. I’m gutted that we were beaten by Argentina in the Semi Finals on Wednesday night. The team did us all proud, and I’m sure they’ve inspired a new generation of fans and players. Whilst football might not be coming home, we should make sure we give the squad a warm welcome home.
