TAP Welcomes Andy Burnham's Bold Vision for Britain

London, 29 June 2026 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) has welcomed today's speech by Andy Burnham, describing it as an encouraging step towards the kind of bold, long-term thinking Britain urgently needs.

The organisation said many of the themes outlined in the speech closely reflect proposals that TAP has been advocating for several years, including greater devolution, investment in infrastructure, building more homes, creating stronger regional economies and developing a more inclusive model of economic growth.

Tom Burgess, CEO of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said:

"What was most encouraging about today's speech was not simply the individual policies, but the optimism, ambition and determination behind them.

Britain has spent too long managing decline. People are looking for hope, a clear direction and a government prepared to take bold decisions that improve the lives of ordinary people.

Many of the priorities Andy Burnham outlined are closely aligned with the agenda that Taxpayers Against Poverty has consistently promoted – investing in infrastructure, devolving power away from Westminster, building more homes, creating stronger local economies and ensuring economic growth is shared more fairly."

TAP believes that Britain now has a genuine opportunity to tackle the underlying causes of poverty, inequality and financial hardship by adopting a coherent programme of reform rather than relying on isolated policy announcements.

The organisation has long argued that economic renewal should include:

·       A modern tax system that rewards work more than wealth.

·       Greater devolution and fiscal powers for cities and regions.

·       Major investment in transport and infrastructure.

·       Large-scale housebuilding linked to transport hubs.

·       Policies focused on inclusive growth and national wellbeing alongside GDP.

·       Poverty prevention as a guiding principle across government.

Tom Burgess continued:

"The real challenge begins now.

Bold ideas are often met with resistance—from sections of the media, political opponents and, understandably, from those whose existing financial interests may be affected by change.

History shows that meaningful reform is rarely achieved without pushback. Leadership is about having the courage and determination to stay the course when that resistance comes."

TAP also welcomed the measured response from the financial markets following today's speech.

"It was particularly encouraging that the financial markets responded calmly and sensibly. That should give confidence that ambitious reform and economic credibility are not mutually exclusive.

Britain does not have to choose between fairness and growth. In fact, we believe they go hand in hand."

The organisation said the next phase will be about translating vision into practical delivery.

"People do not expect every problem to be solved overnight. They do expect a government with a clear destination, a connected plan and the determination to deliver it.

If Britain is serious about reducing poverty, lowering the cost of living and rebuilding confidence in politics, this is precisely the kind of leadership the country has been waiting for."

Taxpayers Against Poverty said it looks forward to working constructively with politicians across the political spectrum to help develop practical policies that turn today's ideas into reality and deliver lasting improvements in living standards, opportunity and prosperity.

ENDS

For more information, media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty Email: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org  Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk

About Real Agenda Ltd

Real Agenda Ltd is a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving. Through its network of organisations, Real Agenda works to promote practical, evidence-based solutions that create a fairer and more compassionate society.

Taxpayers against Poverty (TAP) is a national campaigning organisation founded by the late Rev. Paul Nicolson. TAP works to expose the causes and consequences of poverty and advocates for policies that ensure everyone can meet their basic needs and participate fully in society.

Compassion in Politics (CIP) is a cross-party movement dedicated to putting compassion at the heart of political decision-making. It works with politicians, public institutions and citizens to encourage a more human-centred approach to public policy and public life.

The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) is Real Agenda’s research and policy development arm. It develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

Real Agenda Radio (RAR) is the media platform, providing podcasts, interviews and commentary that amplify under-reported issues, challenge conventional thinking and give a voice to people working for positive social change. RAR has been dormant for a couple of years and due to be reactivated later in 2026)

Together, these organisations combine campaigning, research, media and public engagement to advance practical solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen communities and build a more inclusive economy.