Starmer promises planning reform and ‘a new business model’ for UK

Sir Keir Starmer addressed business chiefs as he stepped up engagement with industry ahead of the general election expected next year.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer speaking during the British Chambers Commerce Annual Global conference (Jordan Pettitt/PA) (PA Wire)

Labour will tear up planning red tape and allow some development on the green belt in order to increase the supply of homes, Sir Keir Starmer said.

The Labour leader said he wanted to see the price of houses come down, relative to incomes as he accused the Tories of killing off the dream of home ownership.

In a speech to the British Chambers of Commerce, Sir Keir stepped up his efforts to woo businesses ahead of the general election, saying he wanted “robust private sector growth” and a partnership with industry.