We lost the election on a massive scale, but it shouldn’t stop us from coming forward with ideas that demonstrate to all ages that the Conservative Party is alive and can still contribute to the prosperity of Britain.
We have to take every opening to create growth. That means involving every aspect of our society.
Last week’s Autumn Statement signalled a significant shift in power in the UK. For the West Midlands, it delivered not only announcements that will help supercharge our economy, but a fundamental change in how this region will be run.
Trying to replicate successful schemes like Canary Wharf in places like the East of England is a pointless exercise. What works in cities may not be applicable elsewhere.
Shadow Ministers have attacked the idea. But Labour councils were falling over themselves to put in bids. Levelling up is now about a hand up not a hand out.
“For too long, the political debate has been dominated by the argument about how we distribute a limited economic pie. Instead, we need to grow the pie so that everyone gets a bigger slice.”
“You can trust me to do what it takes. The status quo is not an option. That is why we can’t give in to the voices of decline.”
Growth happens when policy removes friction, not when it replaces markets. This is also the only credible Conservative response to the political forces now reshaping the landscape.