Levelling Up or Spreading the Jam?

Boris Johnson finally tells us what “levelling up” means – or does he? Is it about fixing up towns, enhancing job prospects or just more Boris boosterism? We look inside the PM’s big Levelling Up launch with special guest Ben Chu, Economics Editor of BBC Newsnight. Plus the Government narrowly wins its widely-denounced bid to cut the International Aid Budget. Will voters care that Johnson has broken a key manifesto promise? And a new report the Commission For Smart Government says government must reform urgently or fail. Is it right? “Even after this speech we’re still not quite clear what levelling up means.” – Gemma Tetlow “If your levelling up has a redistributive element then it’s got to be paid for. Whatever Johnson says, that means the more prosperous parts of the country.” – Ben Chu “Johnson did seem to address his appeal for ideas from local leaders only to Conservative authorities, not Labour areas…” – Alex Thomas Presented by Bronwen Maddox with Alex Thomas and Gemma Tetlow. Audio production by Alex Rees. Inside Briefing is a Podmasters Production for the IfG. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices