Makerfield MP, Andy Burnham, has unveiled his ideas for the UK economy – including devolving greater powers to directly elected mayors.
In a speech in Manchester setting out a ten-year plan for the economy, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, who is bidding to become the next Prime Minister, said his plans would address an imbalance between national and local government
Responding the speech by Andy Burnham MP, Neil Davy, CEO FBUK said:
“Much of what Andy Burnham has laid out echoes many of the points in our own Policy Agenda for family businesses – an emphasis on long-termism, on place-based regeneration and greater fiscal devolution.
“Family businesses are inherently rooted in their local areas. Their success is closely tied to the towns and cities in which they operate, making them a vital component of effective devolution. Our latest research on the growth potential of mid-sized family businesses, reinforces this highlighting how these firms act as regional powerhouses with significant scale-up potential underscoring the need for targeted support to unlock that growth.
“Greater fiscal and social devolution, alongside the proposed increase in social value weighting in procurement, could be highly effective if implemented well. But, family businesses must not be treated as an afterthought in this process. All Mayoral Combined Authorities should ensure family businesses have a voice and representation on Business Advisory Councils”.