Labour’s Wes Streeting has voiced support for the party’s U-turns while emphasizing the importance of government getting decisions right initially. The Health Secretary proposed that aiming for accuracy from the start should be a key resolution for 2026, following a series of policy reversals.
In response to criticisms of delays caused by U-turns, Streeting highlighted the value of feedback in making informed decisions. He stressed the need to prioritize correctness over political considerations when admitting mistakes.
Referencing an NHS initiative called GIRFT (Get It Right First Time), Streeting urged a commitment to getting things right on the first attempt. He also criticized a culture of making excuses within Labour, cautioning against blaming external factors for challenges faced by the party.
The comments are interpreted as a critique of Keir Starmer’s former aide, Paul Ovenden, who recently pointed out obstacles hindering Labour’s progress. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham echoed concerns about resistance to devolution efforts within Whitehall, calling for substantial reforms to empower local governments.
Burnham also criticized the conflicting actions of government departments and advocated for a unified approach to promoting growth and efficiency. He suggested that reducing the influence of unelected bodies like Whitehall and enhancing the authority of elected representatives could lead to a more effective governance system aligned with local needs and growth objectives.