100 Days? – Wow, That Was 100 Hours!
Much is made of the progress that one can make within their first 100 days in a new job. This period is a critical time to set the tone and agenda for the new administration. Only last week, His Majesty’s Opposition was laying out their ambitious timetable for government, emphasising that growth was the answer to many of the nation's pressing problems. One of Labour’s key proposals for stimulating growth was to loosen the planning system and reintroduce local housing targets, prioritising these measures within their first 100 days.
Back to the Future: Channelling FDR's Spirit
The notion of the "first 100 days" originates from the United States by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. In a period of economic crisis, rapid and decisive action was necessary, much like the situation we find ourselves in today. Therefore, for the new Labour Government to recommit to significant changes within the first 100 hours of their tenure certainly represents a bold declaration of intent.
Is Rachel better than Angela?
On the first Monday in office, it was the Chancellor who took centre stage, outlining plans to rebuild our economy with modifications to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the reintroduction of housing targets, and a commitment to increase the number of local authority planning officers. Some might wonder why it wasn’t the Deputy Prime Minister, who is responsible for housing and local government, leading this announcement. The reason, albeit somewhat technical, lies in the fact that HM Treasury holds the purse strings necessary to fund these initiatives. So on this occasion it is encouraging that the debate is being led by the Treasury and not Local Government.
A date for your diary – 17th July
The next pivotal date to watch is the 17th of July – the State Opening of Parliament. This event, marked by the grandeur of ermine-clad Lords and the delivery of the King’s Speech, will provide a clearer picture of the legislative agenda and the timing of these proposed changes. It will be a crucial moment to understand when and how the promised legislation will be introduced.
Promises, Promises: Can They Walk the Talk?
Promises of reform and progress have often been made by previous Governments, only to fall short in delivery. As we look ahead, the pressing question remains: Will our new Government succeed where others have failed? Will they truly be able to build the growth and change they have so fervently promised? The coming days and weeks will be telling, as the new administration moves from commitment to action.
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