Burnham not doing enough to boost growth, says Starmer ally
Former business secretary Peter Kyle has publicly urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to prioritize economic growth with greater urgency. Kyle suggested that the government should consider delaying certain workers' rights to achieve short-term economic gains.
Why it matters
This highlights internal friction within the Labour government regarding the balance between economic policy and social protections.
Image caption, Peter Kyle served as business secretary during Sir Keir Starmer's premiership
A cabinet minister under Sir Keir Starmer has said Andy Burnham's government is not focused enough on boosting economic growth and needs to act with "more urgency".
Speaking to the BBC two months after being sacked in Burnham's cabinet reshuffle upon entering office, Peter Kyle said he wasn't making a "criticism" but "pointing to the potential that we have as a country and as a government".
"If the destination means prosperity, it means freedom for people to do new things, and it means security for people and families, then why wouldn't we put our foot down and get there quicker," the former business secretary said.
It comes as Labour prepares to gather in Liverpool for its annual conference.
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