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Lord Wilson of Sedgefield (Lab)

Speaking in the House of Lords on 15 September 2026

Debate

Tax Burden and Economic Growth

Contribution

My noble friend asks a very important question which is central to this Government’s plan for growth and devolution. Closing regional productivity gaps is a major economic opportunity, with productivity in northern cities around 20% lower in than similar-sized cities in the OECD. If we are able do that, we can boost UK GVA by £82 billion. We are devolving more power to local leaders and investing in transport and housing infrastructure. The aim is not simply to redistribute existing growth but to increase the productive potential of major cities around the country. We are going to rely on regional mayors, for example, to ensure that they have a say in how that growth takes place.

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