This initiative comes as a response to the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak from Rochdale, who succumbed to a respiratory condition caused by extensive mould in his flat. The Government aims to introduce life-changing reforms to prevent such tragedies and hold social landlords accountable for the well-being of their tenants.

Swift Action Proposal

The Awaab’s Law consultation, launched by the Housing Secretary, proposes imposing strict time limits on social housing providers to address hazardous conditions promptly. The proposed framework requires social landlords to investigate hazards within 14 days, commence fixing within an additional seven days, and complete emergency repairs within a stringent 24-hour timeframe.

Failure to comply may result in legal consequences, including court orders to compensate affected tenants.

Housing Secretary, Michael Gove, emphasised the urgency of these measures, stating, “Today is about stronger and more robust action against social landlords who have refused to take their basic responsibilities seriously for far too long.”

Policy Institute Curia’s Housing Inquiry

Curia’s Levelling Up Commission recently conducted an inquiry session on housing and homelessness. Part one focused exclusively on the UK’s planned transition to green energy and the challenges that come with reaching net zero targets. The panel was hosted by the commission’s chair, former Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Social Care Paula Sheriff, and she was joined by two industry leaders who provided some solutions to potential obstacles: Richard Miller, an Associate Director at Connected Places Catapult, and James Dyson, a Senior Researcher at E3G.

Awaab’s Law: Transparency and Accountability

To ensure transparency and accountability, landlords will be mandated to maintain clear records of their efforts to comply with the new timeframes. This measure aims to prevent landlords from delaying essential repairs and to provide tenants with the assurance that their concerns are being actively addressed.

Faisal Abdullah, Awaab’s father, expressed support for Awaab’s Law, stating, “We hope that Awaab’s Law will stop any other family going through the pain that we went through. Landlords need to listen to the concerns of tenants, and we support these proposals.”

Social housing campaigner, Kwajo Tweneboa, echoed these sentiments, stating, “It’s crucial the Government can make sure this law has teeth and is enforced for it to work as intended.”

Strengthening Tenant Rights

Through the measures introduced, tenants now have the right to take legal action against landlords failing to rectify dangerous hazards promptly. This builds on the ongoing efforts to improve standards in social housing.

The Social Housing (Regulation) Act, enacted last year, equips the Regulator of Social Housing and tenants with enhanced powers and rights to hold rogue landlords accountable. The Regulator now has the authority to issue unlimited fines and enter properties with 48 hours’ notice to address emergency repairs in severe cases.

The proposed changes align with the Government’s commitment to addressing systemic issues identified post the Grenfell Tower fire. These include not only ensuring the safety and quality of social housing but also improving the treatment of tenants by their landlords.

Future Steps and Consultation

The Awaab’s Law consultation will remain open for eight weeks, allowing stakeholders and the public to provide input. Following the analysis of responses, secondary legislation will be introduced to enforce Awaab’s Law as soon as practically possible. The Government continues to engage with the social housing sector, residents, and experts to address unsafe homes.

These reforms mark a significant step forward in the Government’s pursuit of safer and higher-quality social housing, with ongoing efforts to keep the public informed through monthly updates on improvements in social housing in England.

Awaab’s Law consultation will be open for eight weeks and further details on how to respond can be found here.

At the launch of Levelling Up 2.0: A Blueprint for the Future Michael Gove, the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities, articulates the Conservative Party’s vision for creating a more equitable and prosperous United Kingdom.

Gove began by expressing gratitude to the authors of the book that resonates with the party’s core principles, particularly the One Nation tradition, which emphasises representing every community, region, and nation within the country.

Gove stresses that the Conservative Party must embrace its role as a national party, seeking to address the needs of all citizens. Rejecting divisive politics and neglect of certain regions, he insists that effective governance requires a commitment to empowering and serving the entire national community.

To a packed room, Gove highlighted the unique challenges posed by geographic and economic inequality in the UK. While acknowledging the nation’s achievements, Gove candidly acknowledges the persistent disparities in productivity, education, and job opportunities across regions. He attributes these challenges to factors like deindustrialisation and globalisation, which have impacted the economic strength and pride of various communities.

“The One Nation tradition within the Conservative Party represents, to my mind, the very best of the Conservative Party tradition. Because what that tradition is about is recognising again, these are just really these words, but they resonate now that the Conservative Party is a national party, or it is nothing.”

Rt Hon Michael Gove MP

A moral obligation

Gove passionately argues that levelling up is not just an economic imperative but also a moral obligation. He firmly believes that denying equal opportunities based on circumstances beyond individuals’ control is unjust. Levelling up, according to Gove, is not just about economic efficiency but also about renewing the country’s social fabric and empowering citizens to fulfil their potential.

Drawing inspiration from the successful revitalisation of London Docklands in the 1980s, Gove highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach. Levelling up requires a mix of elements, including investment in infrastructure, culture, education, and crime reduction. He emphasises the significance of cultivating an environment that attracts both private investment and fosters local pride.

“We have to represent every community, every region, every nation, every tradition, every individual within the United Kingdom. If our politics is based on pitting groups against each other, or if our politics is neglectful of any part of the United Kingdom on the basis that they won’t vote for us, then we forfeit the right to govern. Because we can only govern effectively and successfully if we are seeking to address the needs of every part of the United Kingdom, our entire national community.”

Rt Hon Michael Gove MP

Praising leadership across the UK

Gove highlighted several notable figures who have made invaluable contributions to levelling up. Gove lauded Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands Combined Authority, for exemplifying a private sector-led vision for economic growth while collaborating with universities and leveraging cultural strengths.

Gove also praised the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, for championing the creation of investment zones across the UK. These zones aim to bring together private sector players, research institutions, and local governments to drive positive change and empower communities.

Final thought

Ben Howlett, Chief Executive, Curia

Gove’s passionate articulation of the Conservative Party’s vision for levelling up Britain unveils a comprehensive strategy aimed at building a more united, prosperous, and equitable nation.

Embracing the One Nation tradition, the party commits to representing and serving every community, region, and individual within the United Kingdom. Gove’s candid acknowledgment of the economic and geographic inequalities provides a sobering reality check, reminding us of the work that lies ahead.

The vision for levelling up goes beyond mere economic efficiency; it is rooted in a moral imperative to provide equal opportunities to all citizens. By empowering local governments and fostering community engagement, the government seeks to harness the unique strengths and potential of every region.

Gove’s reference to the successful regeneration of London Docklands serves as a powerful example of the positive impact that a comprehensive approach can achieve. Highlighting the significance of investing in infrastructure, education, culture, and crime reduction, he underscores the need to create an environment that attracts private investment while instilling local pride.

The article celebrates the contributions of exceptional figures like Andy Street and Jeremy Hunt, who play crucial roles in driving the government’s vision for levelling up. By creating investment zones and ensuring collaboration among different stakeholders, these leaders set the course for transformative change and a brighter future for all.

Overall, Gove’s persuasive narrative invites the Conservative Party and the nation to embark on a journey of renewal – a journey that will require collective effort, collaboration, and innovation. The vision for levelling up embodies a commitment to forging a stronger, more united Britain, where every citizen’s potential is fully realised.

As we move forward, it is incumbent upon policymakers, communities, and individuals to embrace the spirit of unity and inclusivity inherent in this vision. By working together, we can bridge the gaps between regions, empower the workforce, and unleash the full potential of the United Kingdom.

With steadfast determination and a shared sense of purpose, the Conservative Party’s vision for levelling up can become a reality, shaping a future where prosperity is widespread, and every citizen enjoys a fair chance to thrive. As we navigate the challenges ahead, let us be inspired by the spirit of one nation, working hand in hand to build a brighter, more resilient, and truly united Britain for generations to come.

In a recent speech at the book launch of Levelling Up 2.0: A Blueprint for the Future, former Cabinet Minister and One National Conservative MP, Sir Robert Buckland reflects on his personal journey and the transformative potential of the levelling up agenda. Drawing from his own experiences growing up in South West Wales, he discusses the challenges faced by communities affected by industrial decline and the importance of government intervention. With an emphasis on the wellbeing of people and the revitalisation of forgotten regions, Sir Robert expresses his enthusiasm for the policy and its potential impact on the United Kingdom as a whole.

A Journey Back in Time

Explaining about his upbringing and why he is so passionate about the subject, Sir Robert outlined his upbringing in a part of the United Kingdom that suffered greatly from industrial decline. He shares a common background with a certain former debating adversary, Michael Gove, highlighting how both their communities experienced the collapse of industries that had once been their lifeblood. The speaker’s personal experience with the decline of the steel industry serves as a poignant example of the challenges faced by those whose lives were intricately tied to these fading sectors.

Inspiration from Visionaries

Sir Robert expressed his hope and encouragement upon witnessing the Conservative Government’s actions in the 1980s, spearheaded by leaders such as Margaret Thatcher and Michael Heseltine. He highlighted the creation of development corporations in areas like Liverpool and Cardiff Bay, which brought about an economic revitalisation and positively impacted the lives of individuals within these communities. For the speaker, these interventions signified a targeted, appropriate, and sensible approach to long-term governance, transcending short-term political cycles.

“It’s not just about bricks and mortar and roads and bridges, important though they are. It’s about the people.”

Rt Hon Sir Robert Buckland KBE MP

The Essence of Levelling Up

Moving forward, Sir Robert shared his excitement at being part of a cabinet that supported a manifesto embracing the core principles of his long-held vision. He emphasised that Levelling Up is more than just infrastructure development – it is a policy centred around people and the often overlooked, left-behind communities. It is not just about bricks and mortar, Sir Robert explained, underscoring that the true essence of the agenda lies in transforming lives and providing opportunities for all.

A Collaborative Approach

Delighted to collaborate on a book promoting a comprehensive and One Nation perspective on the policy, Sir Robert highlighted the need for tangible results rather than mere slogans. He praises a white paper sponsored by the following speaker, Michael Gove, emphasising its detailed approach and the inclusion of metrics and ambitious targets. He argued that a resolute focus, accountability, and cross-parliament collaboration are vital for the success of the policy in the long run.

Working Directly with Local Government

To underscore the policy’s effectiveness, Sir Robert recounts his experience administering the Shared Prosperity Fund for communities in Wales. He has spent a career working directly with local government and witnessing the value they placed on engagement with central authorities. He takes pride in highlighting success stories and the positive impact of meaningful collaboration; Sir Robert demonstrates the potential for change and the importance of acknowledging the unique needs of diverse communities.

As a passionate and committed Unionist, Sir Robert emphasised that the essence of the United Kingdom lies in its communities, towns, and villages. He stressed the need to invest in the potential and quality of every community, so that individuals are no longer forced to leave their hometowns to achieve success. He emphasised the importance of embracing the digital age and remote connectivity, enabling talented individuals to lead and contribute to the development of their communities.

Making Levelling Up a Reality

Sir Robert concluded by urging local and regional leaders in the audience to take an active role in making levelling up a reality. He highlights the contributions of outstanding regional leaders and their ability to bring about positive change through meaningful devolution. He stresses that meaningful devolution, rooted in substance and purpose, must be the foundation of the levelling up agenda. With a blueprint for success in hand, he concluded by expressing optimism and the urgency to move forward and turn plans into action.

Final Thought

The levelling up agenda represents an ambitious vision for the future of the United Kingdom, aiming to uplift and empower communities that have been left behind. By sharing personal experiences, emphasising collaboration, and promoting meaningful devolution, Sir Robert conveyed the policy’s potential to transform lives and unite the nation. With a call to action for local and regional leaders, Sir Robert’s message echoes the belief that no community deserves to be left behind, and that by investing in people, the United Kingdom can thrive and prosper together.

This is the first in a series of features on the recent Curia book launch, Levelling Up 2.0: A Blueprint for the Future.

Watch the full video here:

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The launch of the book Levelling Up 2.0: A Blueprint for the Future brought together a panel of influential authors, including Chair of the 2022 Levelling Up Commission, Sir Robert Buckland KBE MP and Members of Parliament Bim Afolami, Katherine Fletcher and Jane Stevenson and Chair of the District Councils Network, Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen. The panel delved into thought-provoking discussions on the concept of levelling up and its implications for different regions of the United Kingdom. As the conversation unfolded, important questions were raised about how to balance the development of less privileged areas without neglecting the needs of established urban centres like London.

The panel’s thought-provoking exchange highlighted the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors, the importance of addressing inequalities, and the continuous nature of this ambitious endeavour.

This feature explores the key insights and proposals put forward during the panel discussion and the potential implications for the future of levelling up. Questions were posed to the panel by gathered attendees.

Addressing Regional Disparities

A student from UCL kicked off the discussion by raising the crucial question of levelling up without inadvertently levelling down London. The panel unanimously agreed that levelling up should not come at the expense of the capital. Instead, they emphasised the importance of recognising the untapped economic potential in regions outside London. Katherine Fletcher, Member of Parliament for South Ribble, highlighted the need to view regions like the North West as an economic opportunity rather than a burden. By providing support and infrastructure, these areas can thrive and contribute to the country’s overall growth.

“These things are generational projects, but that’s not an excuse. We’ve got to begin.” Bim Afolami MP

Transport infrastructure emerged as a key factor in achieving effective levelling up. Fletcher passionately advocated for improved transport connectivity in regions outside London, emphasising the need for better east-west and local connections. She called for devolving accountability and empowering local governments to address the specific needs of their regions. Jane Stevenson, another panellist and Member of Parliament for Wolverhampton North West, echoed this sentiment, stressing that every region has unique requirements, and it is essential to tailor solutions accordingly.

HS2 and Infrastructure Projects

The discussion took an interesting turn when the topic of HS2, a major infrastructure project, was raised. While acknowledging the importance of HS2 for connecting the country, concerns were voiced about the sluggishness of progress. Member of Parliament for Hitchin and Harpenden, Bim Afolami expressed frustration with the delays and emphasised the need for efficient project management and trust in local government. The panel emphasised that successfully delivering smaller projects would build confidence in the capability of central and local governments to execute larger initiatives like HS2.

The panel also addressed the challenges faced by rural communities in the levelling up agenda. A Wiltshire councillor highlighted the need for infrastructure projects to be extended to rural areas, enhancing connectivity and improving the quality of life for residents. Furthermore, the potential of the committee system in local government was discussed as a means to deliver a levelling up agenda effectively. With a focus on the committee system, it was suggested that local governments could take a more active role in decision-making, leveraging their knowledge of local needs and resources.

Towards a Balanced Future

The panel discussion provided valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of levelling up. It emphasised the importance of recognising the unique requirements of different regions and empowering local governments to address those needs. Trust in local government was a significant theme highlighted by Chair of the District Council’s Network and Leader of Breckland District Council in Norfolk, Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen. Efficient project management, trust in local government, and a balanced approach to infrastructure development were identified as crucial factors for successful levelling up. By considering these insights and implementing inclusive strategies, policymakers can strive for a future where all regions of the United Kingdom can thrive and contribute to the nation’s progress.

The Outcome of Levelling Up: Measures of Success

CEO of MTR in the UK, an infrastructure consultancy, Steve Murphy emphasised the positive impact of good railway and transport infrastructure on levelling up. He highlighted the dramatic improvements witnessed in London due to the Elizabeth line. Moreover, he stressed the potential of transport investment in boosting prosperity, increasing land values, and attracting private sector funding. Murphy’s call for leveraging the benefits of railway infrastructure resonated with the audience, suggesting that such a model could be adopted more widely to create a platform for investment.

Paul Bachelor from UCLan and UCL raised a critical question: How can we measure the success of levelling up? He aptly pointed out the growing inequality in people’s lives over the past decade, urging the panel to define tangible outcomes that demonstrate real improvements. The complex nature of levelling up initiatives makes it challenging to pinpoint a definitive moment of success. However, the panel acknowledged the importance of taking concrete steps and implementing continuous projects to address societal disparities.

Improving Health Outcomes: A Priority for Levelling Up

The issue of population health and health inequalities was raised by a representative from the University of Leeds. Highlighting the alarming health disparities faced by children in Bradford, the audience member emphasised the need to integrate health outcomes into the levelling up agenda. The panel acknowledged the significance of health in achieving a level playing field and recognised that economic and skill-based improvements alone are not sufficient. The discussion underscored the importance of holistic approaches to levelling up, encompassing education, economics, and health initiatives.

Education, Skills, and Housing: Key Pillars of Success

Afolami stressed the crucial role of education and employment opportunities in levelling up. He argued that creating high-paying, high-quality jobs near residential areas is essential to provide better educational prospects for individuals across the UK. The conversation also touched upon the importance of rural connectivity, access to broadband, and the necessity to densify towns and cities for economic vitality.

Chapman-Allen highlighted the challenges faced by young people and emphasised the need for good standards of open spaces, affordable leisure facilities, and safe, secure accommodation. The role of local authorities and councils in providing these amenities was acknowledged, albeit with the recognition that limited resources often hinder their efforts. The discussion shed light on the multifaceted nature of levelling up, calling for co-ordinated action across various sectors to address the needs of communities comprehensively.

The Role of Criminal Justice in Levelling Up

Anita Dockley from the Howard League posed an important question regarding the absence of criminal justice from the levelling up agenda. As former Justice Secretary, Buckland assured the audience that criminal justice was indeed a vital aspect and explained its inclusion in the key metrics outlined in the White Paper. Recognising the downstream effects of policy failures in areas such as education and social care, Buckland emphasised the importance of early interventions to prevent the strain on the.

Final Thought

The panel discussion on Levelling Up 2.0: A Blueprint for the Future provided valuable insights into the complexities of achieving a levelled-up society. It emphasised the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors, addressing inequalities, and the continuous nature of this ambitious endeavour. The discussions highlighted the crucial role of infrastructure investment, education, health outcomes, and criminal justice in levelling up.

Infrastructure investment emerged as a catalyst for prosperity, with transport infrastructure being a key focus. The positive impact of railway and transport infrastructure on levelling up was emphasised, along with the potential to attract private sector funding. The panel recognised the importance of tangible outcomes to measure the success of levelling up, acknowledging the need for concrete steps and continuous projects to address societal disparities.

The significance of health outcomes and holistic approaches in achieving a level playing field were also emphasised. Education, skills, and housing were identified as key pillars of success, stressing the need for high-quality jobs, rural connectivity, and safe, secure accommodation. The role of local authorities and councils in providing amenities for communities was acknowledged, despite the challenges posed by limited resources.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of including criminal justice in the levelling up agenda. Early interventions and addressing policy failures in education and social care were outlined to prevent future strains.

The panel discussion shed light on the multifaceted nature of levelling up and the need for a comprehensive, balanced approach. It underscored the importance of collaboration, tangible outcomes, and continuous efforts to address regional disparities and create a levelled-up society. By considering the insights shared during this discussion, policymakers can work towards a future where all individuals and communities have equal opportunities for success and prosperity.

So, I might be biased, but Levelling Up 2.0: A Blueprint for the Future is a timely and insightful book that sets out a comprehensive future vision for the levelling up agenda in the United Kingdom. Authored by a diverse group of contributors, including Sir Robert Buckland, One Nation MPs, and leaders in local/regional government, the book explores the importance of empowering local communities, driving change through collaboration, and sharing prosperity across the nation.

All too often have the fringes of the Conservative Party been given a loud voice on one of the most important political debates of this generation.  This book redresses this imbalance. A phrase which was a household topic of conversation needs a definition for the long-term benefit it can bring to generations of families across the country. Having read the various chapters written by MPs including Sir Robert, Jane Stevenson, Bim Afolami, Sally-Ann Hart, Fay Jones, Katherine Fletcher, West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, and Leader of the District Council Network, Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, this book provides a unique vision for the future. If some of the ideas incorporated within the chapters are enacted, the opportunities could be significant to people across the UK.

The book begins with an impactful foreword by Sir Robert Buckland, highlighting the unwavering commitment of the authors to the levelling up agenda. Despite changes in leadership, the book asserts that the agenda remains a priority for the Government, offering assurance to investors and instilling confidence in long-term investment opportunities. With the Labour Party also confirming their support for the agenda, the book emphasises the opportunity to deliver a long-term levelling up vision.

Strengthening national and local co-operation

One of the key themes running throughout the book is the importance of collaboration and partnership between various stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society, and the private sector. The authors stress the need for visible local performance monitoring and increased devolution as crucial elements of the levelling up agenda. They advocate for empowered local authorities and highlight the achievements already made in Conservative-led regions such as the West Midlands. The authors also stress the importance of attracting global businesses to invest in regions across the UK, requiring a competitive landscape and devolution of decision-making to local leaders.

The book thoroughly examines the Levelling Up the United Kingdom White Paper, which outlines a comprehensive vision for creating a country where individuals can thrive without having to leave their localities. It goes beyond economic development, considering factors like health, productivity, connectivity, well-being, and community pride. The authors demonstrate their commitment to the long-term sustainability of the levelling up agenda and propose an ambitious plan for its future development.

The strategic framework of the White Paper is explored, including the six ‘”capitals’,” or drivers, of growth and the five foundational elements necessary for successful local growth policies. The book also delves into the twelve levelling up missions, categorising them into four focus areas to be achieved by 2030. The importance of robust metrics and performance measurements at all levels of government is emphasised, ensuring effective implementation and evaluation of the levelling up agenda.

A radical reform agenda

The book raises the need for improved central government decision-making, enhanced local involvement, and better co-ordination between different levels of government. It advocates for the reform of local government structures and the creation of strategically appropriate unitary authorities. The importance of reliable subnational data, a subnational data strategy, and a spatial data unit to support local decision-making and enhance transparency is also highlighted.

Ultimately, the book serves as a call to action for the Government to prioritise long-term investments in human capital. It presents a range of exciting ideas for the future of the levelling up agenda, including digital connectivity, improvements in education and skills, housing, transport connectivity, and research and development integration. It emphasises the importance of delivering on the levelling up agenda and showcasing the transformative impact it can have on communities across the UK.

Levelling up 2.0: A Blueprint for the Future is a valuable One Nation contribution to the ongoing debate surrounding the levelling up agenda. It provides a roadmap for the Government and policymakers to address economic disparities, promote collaboration, and ensure that progress and prosperity are shared equally across the nation. The book’s insights and recommendations have the potential to shape and guide the implementation of the levelling up policy in the years to come.

Curia’s Levelling Up Commission

Curia is holding the Levelling Up Commission this year, seeking to implement the Government’s Levelling Up White Paper and find pragmatic solutions to regional disparities across the UK.

Through roundtable meetings with MPs and senior leaders of local and regional government from across the UK, quantitative data analysis and regional sprints, the Commission intends to set out a series of recommendations to consider how regional inequalities can be reduced from the perspective of public services in four key areas:

• Health and Social Care
• Housing and Homelessness
• Education, Skills and Training
• Crime, Justice and Rehabilitation

To hear thought leaders discuss levelling up in health and social care, signup to the Commission first inquiry session here.

If you are interested in working with the Levelling Up Commission, please reach out to our policy lead Shivani Sen at shivani.sen@politicsuk.com