Andy Burnham has set out how the Government plans to work with London Mayor Sadiq Khan on a London Deal to unlock growth across the capital, arguing that London's success is Britain's success.
Writing in the capital, Burnham addressed a misconception that giving more power to the rest of the country means London getting less. He said this could not be further from the truth, and that he wants London to push forward as it always has, and even further.
Removing barriers to growth
Burnham said that despite London's success, there is still much untapped potential, with areas held back by poor transport links, a shortage of homes, and investment that takes too long to get moving. He said his job is not to decide where to invest next, but to remove those barriers so London can make those decisions.
The Budget is described as the first step towards developing a London Deal with Sadiq and the Greater London Authority, giving the capital more of the powers and tools it needs to unlock growth. Burnham highlighted the importance of transport, noting that good transport connects people to jobs, gives businesses more reason to invest, and makes it possible to build more homes.
Stratford and Euston projects
As part of the Budget, the Government has committed to working with Sadiq to unlock more of London's potential through transport, starting with two areas where the opportunity for growth is described as enormous.
First, Stratford. Burnham noted the extraordinary transformation since the Olympics, but also communities facing some of the deepest deprivation, not just in London but nationally. Through No10 North, the Government will look at opening up international rail routes to bring in more investment, as well as giving London a greater share of the money raised in the capital.
Second, Euston. Burnham described the wider Euston-King's Cross district as home to one of the most exciting collections of science and technology innovators anywhere in the world, including businesses in AI and life sciences. The Government will give London access to more of the money raised through business rates in the capital, which can then be used to invest in the nationally important HS2 upgrades.
Mayor to decide on further links
Burnham said the Government will provide the tools for the Mayor to deliver more vital transport links across London, which could mean the extension of the Bakerloo line, the opportunities around the West London Orbital, or something entirely different. He said it will not be up to him, but up to London.
The Budget also aims to bring down the cost of living now, as well as building a better future, providing breathing space on bills today and greater security and opportunity for the years ahead. Burnham said this is just the starting point for developing a growth deal for London, and that he is determined to work with Sadiq to unlock the potential of every part of the city.
