Mayors optimistic after PM meeting

REGIONAL mayors have hailed the potential for a “step change” in their relationship with the Government, after Sir Keir Starmer said he would strive to build a “real partnership” with the English leaders.

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The Prime Minister and his deputy Angela Rayner held a meeting with 11 regional leaders, including Labour’s London Mayor Sadiq Khan, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, and the only Conservative mayor, Tees Valley’s Lord Ben Houchen.

At yesterday morning’s meeting, the regional mayors were told the new Government wanted to build on their local growth plans and to explore further devolved powers.

Sir Keir told the regional leaders: “I know many of you already have growth plans in place – some of you have shared them and that is fantastic.