Labour’s significant victory presents a unique opportunity to revitalize and transform the British economy. The incoming chancellor and prime minister are aware of this chance, with Rachel Reeves aiming for a ‘mandate for growth.’ They attribute their election win to a promise of political and economic stability after years of turmoil. The memory of Liz Truss’ mini-budget was pivotal for swing voters, many of whom turned away from the Conservatives.

New housing estates across the country, once conservative strongholds, have shifted to Labour, emphasizing the new administration’s commitment to controlling borrowing and interest rates under the ‘stability first’ mantra. However, stability alone is insufficient, as noted by former Downing Street advisors and industry leaders.

Labour’s manifesto outlined a mission for a stronger economy but lacked a detailed transformative plan. For instance, public net investment is slated to decrease from current levels. Critics argue that Ms. Reeves’ ‘securinomics’—a model aimed at preparing the private sector for massive green industry investments—lacks adequate funding. It’s seen as ‘Bidenomics without the cash.’

Despite these concerns, Labour leaders believe there is substantial private investment ready to be mobilized if political, economic, and policy stability can be assured. Key investors stress the urgency of action, highlighting delays in renewable energy investments due to planning disputes and lengthy waits for National Grid connections. According to Ms. Reeves, these issues have led to an ‘effective moratorium on building the cheapest forms of energy.’ To secure this investment, swift action is required.

However, questions remain about whether Sir Keir Starmer and Ms. Reeves will confront opposition on issues like house building and key net zero transition measures once in government. Achieving swift economic transformation will inevitably cause discomfort for some.

The immediate challenges in public finances include addressing further bankruptcies of councils and universities. Shadow ministers have expressed surprise at the number of working families struggling with special needs education, impacted by council cuts.

While Labour has ruled out raising the main rates of tax, other taxes might see increases in an Autumn Budget, with work on this and a spending review beginning swiftly.

There is positive news for consumers and public finances, as the Bank of England may start cutting rates on August 1. A creative approach to strict public finance rules, allowing for more upfront investment, could be very appealing.

The challenge now is to make bold decisions, similar to the ‘Big Bang’ reforms, to rejuvenate Britain’s sluggish economic growth. Labour avoided these debates before the election but, with a significant majority, it now has the authority to drive through economic reforms. Labour’s support base is less likely to oppose new infrastructure and housing projects.

The cautious strategy that helped Labour maintain its poll lead must evolve in government. As Ms. Reeves mentioned, ‘We’ve got to break out of a doom loop of low growth, high taxes, and poor public services.’

To attract the transformative investment needed to make the UK the fastest-growing economy in the G7, Labour will need to act boldly and decisively.