This week’s Downtown Den Politics podcast is somewhat of an unusual one because, as we sat down to record, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation. We reflect on that breaking news and what it could mean for the political landscape.
Business leaders gathered on Tuesday 16th June 2026 to hear how Salford is cementing its position as one of the UK’s most dynamic and fastest-growing cities, with public and private sector leaders highlighting the scale of investment, regeneration and economic opportunity transforming the city.
As Lancashire prepares for the most significant restructuring of local government in half a century, alongside plans for a new Combined Authority and the potential introduction of a directly elected mayor, DIB is urging ministers and local leaders to focus on creating councils with the scale and capacity to succeed.
Over the years, a narrative has emerged that the bomb was somehow the catalyst for Manchester’s extraordinary regeneration and renaissance. It is a story repeated so often that many have come to accept it as fact.
The business organisation believes that a cut in hospitality VAT would provide a much-needed stimulus for a sector that sits at the heart of local economies across the country, while helping businesses invest, recruit and grow.
As part of the initiative, DIB has published an open letter to MPs, ministers, metro mayors, and civic leaders outlining a package of proposed reforms.
The government’s new employment rights reforms are being presented as a victory for working people. Ministers argue that they will create greater security, fairness and dignity in the workplace.
When two defence ministers have resigned because they believe the government is failing to invest adequately in Britain’s security, the announcement of £4.5 billion for cycling and walking projects feels, at best, politically naive and, at worst, negligent.
A valuable discussion with city leaders committed to shaping a stronger, more resilient Salford and wider city region economy.
With voters heading to the polls in the Makerfield by-election, the panel considers what the result could mean for the government and opposition parties alike. They also reflect on the resignation of Defence Minister John Healey and debate the government’s decision to ban social media for under-16s.
Downtown in Business Political editor, Jim Hancock interviews Bootle MP, Peter Dowd at the Liverpool City Region Parliamentary Reception in June 2026.
Business leaders, parliamentarians, local government representatives and key stakeholders came together in Westminster this week for a highly successful Liverpool City Region Parliamentary Reception hosted by Downtown in Business.
