Deputy prime minister pledges power shift to the north

Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner has delivered a keynote speech at the Convention of the North, reaffirming the government’s commitment to devolving power and investment to the region. Speaking in Preston, Rayner highlighted the progress made in transferring decision-making authority from Westminster to local leaders, ensuring that “decisions for the North will be made by the North.”

Addressing an audience of business leaders, local government officials, and regional policymakers, Rayner acknowledged the frustration over previous delays in delivering change. “The North is as impatient as anyone for that change – as I am too,” she said. She accused past governments of hoarding power in Whitehall, exacerbating regional inequalities and stifling local economic potential.

Rayner emphasised that the government has already taken significant steps towards “a generational power shift,” with Labour Secretaries of State relinquishing newly won powers to local authorities within weeks of taking office. This move, she explained, was part of a broader effort to complete devolution in the North, ensuring irreversible local control over key economic and infrastructure decisions.

Speaking about the English Devolution White Paper, which aims to “rewire power in England”, she outlined plans to empower local mayors with greater control over housing, transport, and economic growth, enabling them to “get Britain building.” Rayner confirmed that funding for business development would now be integrated into regional settlements, with an Office for Investment working alongside mayors to unlock funding opportunities.

Rayner concluded: "But I know that the change this country needs can’t be micromanaged from Whitehall. It’s people in this room today – mayors, councillors, business owners and investors – who will drive us forward. And as that happens, I can promise that the full force of the government will be behind you.

"Transferring power out of Westminster, getting Britain building, letting our towns and cities fire on all cylinders, doing whatever it takes to kickstart economic growth and leaving no one behind in that government-defining mission."