Wes Streeting has supported Labour’s policy reversals while emphasizing the importance of government getting decisions right the first time. The Health Secretary proposed that striving for accuracy from the outset should be a key objective for the party in 2026, following a series of policy flip-flops.
This stance coincides with the Treasury’s development of a relief package for the pub sector in response to concerns over the impact of significant increases in business rates. Recent reversals by the government include the decision to preserve winter fuel payments for pensioners, backtrack on cuts to disability benefits, and soften inheritance tax rises on farms.
Addressing concerns about the impact of policy U-turns, Mr. Streeting, speaking at the Institute for Government conference, emphasized the value of feedback in steering towards correct decisions. He stressed the importance of rectifying mistakes promptly rather than prioritizing political appearances.
Pointing to the healthcare sector’s “get it right first time” approach, Mr. Streeting urged a similar commitment to accuracy in all government endeavors. He also criticized a culture of making excuses within Labour and warned against blaming external factors for internal challenges.
The remarks were interpreted as a criticism of Paul Ovenden, a former aide to Keir Starmer, who recently lambasted institutional barriers hindering Labour’s progress. Additionally, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham denounced Whitehall’s resistance to devolution initiatives, calling for significant reforms to empower local governance.
Burnham highlighted the challenges of conflicting departmental agendas and the need for a cohesive growth strategy across government bodies. He argued for reducing the influence of unelected officials in decision-making, advocating for structural reforms to mirror the success of localized, growth-oriented approaches in other regions.