Your Intel for June 2025

AI Could Unlock £400 Billion Boost to UK Economy

A new Google report reveals that artificial intelligence could add up to £400 billion to the UK economy by improving workplace productivity. With minimal training, daily AI use can double, saving over 120 hours per worker annually. However, two-thirds of workers still don’t use AI, especially in lower socio-economic groups. Google calls for urgent upskilling initiatives and public sector training to close this gap and realise AI’s full economic potential.

Green Growth Key to UK Prosperity, Says Green Alliance Report

The Green Alliance’s latest report argues that the UK can tackle poverty, economic stagnation, and climate threats by embracing a green economy. It calls for major investment in clean energy, nature restoration, and circular economy initiatives to boost national security, lower living costs, and create high-quality jobs. The report urges policymakers to treat environmental and economic goals as interconnected, positioning green growth as essential for long-term prosperity and resilience.

Public Rethinks Brexit as Report Urges Honest UK-EU Reset

The Good Growth Foundation’s report, The Third Rail of British Politics, argues that Brexit has caused lasting harm to the UK’s economy and global standing, yet remains politically untouchable. Drawing on public opinion, it finds growing support for a pragmatic, cooperative relationship with the EU. The report calls for an end to denial and division, urging leaders to pursue economic and security interests through renewed engagement with Europe, rather than reliving past arguments.

Fair Play: How Competition Policy Can Drive Growth

A report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) argues that the UK’s chronic low investment and competition concerns require a stronger, more proactive competition policy. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) should focus on promoting fair markets that benefit citizens, workers, and startups, supporting economic renewal, productivity, regional balance, and democratic accountability. The report calls for a robust, responsive regulator aligned with industrial and trade goals to boost UK investment.

City-Led Growth Won’t Fuel Discontent, Says Centre for Cities

A new Centre for Cities report challenges the idea that political discontent stems from cities leaving surrounding areas behind. It finds that places with stronger economic ties to nearby big cities were less likely to support Brexit or Reform UK. The real issue, it argues, is the underperformance of major UK cities, which has limited shared prosperity. A city-focused industrial strategy, rather than deepening divides, could actually reduce discontent by boosting regional growth.

Transforming Infrastructure Investment: A Private Finance Perspective

A PwC report highlights the UK's ongoing infrastructure deficit, which is hindering growth and straining public services. With public investment constrained by fiscal rules, PwC consulted over 50 stakeholders to explore a renewed model of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs). Drawing on past lessons, the report proposes a new approach—Infrastructure Partnerships for Growth (IPFGs)—to boost private investment, improve delivery, and support long-term economic and service improvements.

Spending Review 2025: Health and Housing Top Agenda Amid Tight Capital Constraints

A Resolution Foundation report highlights the UK’s long-term underinvestment, especially in social infrastructure like health, housing, and prisons, ahead of the 2025 Spending Review. While a £100 billion capital boost has been announced, much of it merely reverses earlier cuts. With defence and net zero spending largely ringfenced, strategic prioritisation is essential. The report urges a shift towards social infrastructure—especially health and housing—to address pressing needs, support economic growth, and raise living standards, given their broad benefits for productivity and income equality.

Study Highlights Strategies to Boost Productivity in UK Towns and Cities

A study by The Productivity Institute, focusing on Rochdale, emphasises the need for targeted investment to enhance productivity in UK towns and cities. Key recommendations include improving transport connectivity, investing in local skills development, and fostering collaboration among industry, universities, and regional authorities. The report advocates for a balanced investment approach that addresses both immediate challenges and long-term growth opportunities, aiming to break the cycle of low productivity and support sustainable economic development.

UK City of Culture Programme Delivers Broad Benefits, Says Government Review

A government-commissioned review by Warwick Business School finds the UK City of Culture programme generates significant cultural, economic, and social value. The report outlines a theory of change and evaluates impacts such as improved wellbeing, local pride, and economic development. It also highlights challenges in measuring long-term outcomes and calls for more consistent evaluation standards to strengthen future assessments.

Market Concentration and Productivity

An article by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) examines UK market trends from 1997 to 2020, finding that while industry concentration is rising within narrow sectors, it remains stable when markets are broadly defined. The study shows a negative link between concentration and productivity at the firm level, but a positive one for workers, as increased concentration is tied to better allocative efficiency—more workers are employed by higher-productivity firms.

Public Procurement: A Catalyst for Local Innovation

A University of Birmingham report highlights public procurement's potential to drive local innovation and economic growth. Strategic procurement, accounting for 10-15% of GDP in OECD countries, can stimulate innovation in sectors like healthcare and energy. The study emphasises the importance of technical capacity and political considerations in maximising procurement's impact.

Bank of England Cuts Interest Rate

At its May Monetary Policy Committee Meeting (report), the Bank of England reduced the Bank Rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.25%, citing easing inflation and weaker economic growth. Since that decision, figures released mid-month showed inflation higher than expected, leading many in the market to expect a slower rate of future base rate reductions.

The Impact of Scaling Social Infrastructure Investment

A new report by Frontier Economics shows that scaling social infrastructure in disadvantaged UK neighbourhoods could deliver a return of £3.50 for every £1 invested. Targeting areas with existing community foundations, the investment supports long-term regeneration through improved wellbeing, employment, and civic engagement. Though conservative, the estimate excludes several non-monetised benefits, suggesting actual returns may be even higher. The findings reinforce the value of community-led renewal as a cost-effective strategy for tackling deprivation.

Universal Credit Rules Penalise Savers, Resolution Foundation Warns

A new Resolution Foundation report finds that outdated capital rules in Universal Credit are discouraging saving and excluding millions from support. Nearly 2mn families lost or saw reduced entitlement between 2020–22 due to savings thresholds frozen since 2006. Many affected households held modest savings, mostly in accessible accounts. The report urges reform, warning that current rules undermine financial resilience and contradict efforts to promote saving among low- to middle-income families.

Hunger Crisis Costs UK Economy Billions, Trussell Trust Warns

The Trussell Trust's second and final report on hunger and hardship reveals that 9.3 million people in the UK face food insecurity, with disabled households disproportionately affected (no regional breakdown provided). The economic toll is substantial: up to £75 billion annually in lost productivity and increased public service costs. Implementing an "Essentials Guarantee" could lift 2.2 million people out of hardship by 2026/27 and yield £17.6 billion in yearly savings. The charity urges immediate policy action to address the escalating crisis.

Foreign-Born Workers Face Higher Job Insecurity, Resolution Foundation Finds

A Resolution Foundation report reveals that foreign-born workers in the UK are significantly more likely to be in precarious employment, such as zero-hours contracts or gig economy roles. Recent migrants are 2.4 times more likely than UK-born peers to hold flexible contracts, and non-citizens are three times as likely to work in the gig economy. The report warns that poor enforcement and fear of immigration consequences risk entrenching a two-tier workforce.

IPPR Advocates for Balanced Immigration Strategy Amid Economic Uncertainty

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) emphasises the need for a comprehensive immigration policy that balances economic growth with managing migration pressures. With net migration reaching over 900,000 in 2023, the government faces challenges in aligning various departmental priorities. IPPR proposes an annual migration plan, focusing on economic growth per capita, managing infrastructure and public service pressures, supporting community integration, and protecting vulnerable migrants. The white paper is expected to be a pivotal moment in shaping the UK's immigration strategy.

Women: The Key to Boosting Economic Productivity

A Productivity Institute report highlights women's crucial role in enhancing economic productivity. Despite increased workforce participation, structural inequalities and underinvestment in women's health and entrepreneurship hinder their full potential. Diverse perspectives and innovative contributions from women are essential for sustained productivity growth. To tackle the issue, the Government should reform teacher training to address early stereotyping, incentivise diverse leadership in business, improve venture funding for female founders, support upskilling for underrepresented groups, and lead on regulating AI to prevent bias.

Male Teachers Face Hiring Bias in UK Schools

A Warwick Business School study reveals male teachers and teaching assistants face bias when applying for jobs in England's schools. Despite identical qualifications, male applicants are rated lower than female counterparts, particularly for entry-level roles No regional breakdown is provided in the study.

Report Calls for Tailored Support to Help Young People Furthest from the Labour Market

A report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) highlights the challenges faced by young people aged 16–24 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). These individuals often experience complex disadvantages, including ill health and mental health issues. The report outlines four key principles for effective support: a blended approach combining adequate safety nets with tailored active labour market policies; highly targeted and bespoke support; cost-effective programmes with high unit costs; and flexible success measures to accommodate diverse needs. JRF emphasises that addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategies and collaboration across various sectors.

Supporting Small Businesses in Town Centres

The Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) research highlights barriers small businesses encounter when sourcing town centre properties. Most small businesses prefer high street locations, especially for offices and workshops, but face challenges like high costs, limited property information, and complex leasing. While support services exist, many businesses are unaware or find them hard to access. Strong local collaboration improves outcomes, and short-term leases help test viability. Policy changes are needed to improve affordability, transparency, and support access, aiming to revitalise town centres and ease business relocation.

Exporting Your Business: Seize the Opportunity

A report from the Centre for the New Midlands emphasises the importance of exporting for business growth. The report outlines strategies for UK businesses to expand internationally, highlighting benefits such as increased revenue and market diversification. It encourages businesses to leverage current global trade opportunities to enhance competitiveness and drive economic success.

UK AI Innovation Lacks Direction, IPPR Warns

A new IPPR report reveals that 85% of UK AI firms focus on generic solutions rather than addressing specific societal challenges, despite many receiving public funding. The think tank urges the government to steer AI innovation toward public good through strategic funding and oversight. With the UK leading in generative AI patents, the report highlights a missed opportunity to align AI development with national goals like healthcare, sustainability, and economic inclusion.

£4bn Birmingham Knowledge Quarter Launches to Create 22,000 Jobs and Boost Innovation

A £4bn innovation district set to create over 22,000 jobs and deliver nearly 5,000 new homes has officially launched. The Birmingham Knowledge Quarter will unlock 6.2m sq ft of commercial space, with a focus on life sciences, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. Woodbourne Group is leading the 210-hectare site in partnership with Aston University, Birmingham City University, Bruntwood SciTech and Birmingham City Council.

Birmingham Airport Secures £230m Funding to Drive Capital Investment and Growth

Birmingham Airport has secured a £230m financing package to support its capital investment programme. The funding includes a £150m capital expenditure (Capex) facility alongside an £80m private placement with institutional investors, arranged with the support of NatWest as sole debt advisor and sole private placement agent. The new financing provides the capital needed to execute Birmingham Airport’s medium-term investment plans while maintaining its investment-grade credit rating.

Midlands Positioned as UK’s Space Innovation Powerhouse

A new Midlands Engine report highlights the region’s emergence as a leading UK space technology hub, with over 290 businesses engaged in satellite manufacturing, geospatial imaging, and space applications. Centred around Space Park Leicester and supported by top universities, the Midlands offers a strong innovation ecosystem. The report identifies opportunities to scale industrial production, attract investment via the East Midlands Freeport, and strengthen SME growth and skills development to unlock the region’s full potential in the global space economy.

UK Economy Could Gain £23 Billion Annually by Closing Digital Skills Gap

A report by FutureDotNow, developed with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) and sponsored by the National Technology Adviser, reveals that closing the UK's workforce digital skills gap could boost the economy by over £23 billion annually. Enhancing digital capabilities would increase workforce income potential by £10 billion and raise industry profitability by £8.5 billion. The report underscores the importance of investing in essential digital skills to foster economic growth and individual prosperity.

England’s Young Adults Close Global Skills Gap, NFER Finds

A decade after ranking among the lowest internationally, England’s 16–24-year-olds from 2012 have significantly improved their literacy and numeracy by 2023, outperforming OECD peers. According to NFER, these gains reflect successful post-school education and early career development. However, regional and educational disparities persist, with adults in the North and Midlands, and those with lower qualifications still lagging. The findings underscore the need for targeted support to ensure equitable skill development across all groups.

Perceptions of Department for Work and Pensions

Research undertaken by Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Government Social Research Profession, benchmarked public perceptions of DWP brands such as Jobcentre Plus and Universal Credit. It found that, in the West Midlands, 17% of people surveyed would speak highly of DWP and 13% would speak highly of Job Centre Plus, in line with nationally 16% and 14% respectively. In the West Midlands, 30% of young people surveyed who were aged 16-24 and NEET (not in education, employment or training) felt that DWP did not offer enough support, in line with nationally.

IPPR Calls for Empowered Professional Development to Tackle Educational Inequality

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) emphasises the urgent need to reform England's professional development system for educators. Amidst budget constraints and persistent achievement gaps, especially among low-income and special needs students, the IPPR advocates for a shift from top-down accountability to empowering teachers through high-quality, tailored professional development. This approach aims to enhance educational standards and address systemic inequalities.

Rethinking Local Labour Markets: Tackling Underemployment in the UK

A University of Birmingham study highlights persistent underemployment in UK local labour markets, where workers often work fewer hours than desired. Underemployment varied across the WMCA area, but was highest in Birmingham. The research emphasises the need for localised employment policies to address mismatches between skills and job opportunities, advocating for tailored workforce strategies to enhance productivity and social mobility.

Nuclear Enrichment: Building a Stable and Effective Nuclear Workforce

A report by IPPR highlights the vital role of a strong civil nuclear sector in the UK’s energy, growth, and defence strategy. While recent government actions—like approving Sizewell C and reforming planning—show progress, the industry still needs clarity on new site locations, timelines, and leadership between public and private sectors. Prompt answers are essential due to the long lead times and workforce planning involved.

Public Backs Bold Health Reforms, IPPR Finds

A new Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) report reveals strong cross-party support for government action on public health, challenging the "nanny state" narrative. Voters see health as shaped by social and economic conditions, not just personal choices, and want interventions like junk food ad bans, better housing standards, and investment in early childhood. With health now a top-tier electoral issue, the report argues that decisive action could improve lives and win votes in key battleground constituencies.

New Report Urges Policy Shift to Boost Plant-Rich Diets for Health and Climate

The Food Foundation’s Low Hanging Fruit report outlines practical policy steps to increase uptake of plant-rich diets in the UK. It argues that modest dietary shifts—like eating more legumes, vegetables, and wholegrains—could cut diet-related disease, reduce NHS costs, and deliver £1 billion in health benefits. With food insecurity rising and environmental targets looming, the report calls for urgent government action to make healthy, sustainable food more accessible, especially for low-income households.

No Relationship Between NHS Waiting Times and Benefit Claims

A report by the Institute for Fiscal Studes finds that increased NHS waiting lists and times is not a major factor behind the rise in health-related benefit claims among working-age adults. The study suggests other factors are driving the rise in claims, highlighting the need for further research beyond NHS performance metrics.

Social Determinants of Health Equity

A report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) explores the social determinants of health equity.

On potential interventions, it outlines the positive effects of reparative justice, gender equality, ensuring social protection during crises, climate action, and digital transformation. On implementation it stresses the role of local governments, community engagement and robust data monitoring for effective public engagement and accurate interventions. It cites evidence from the UK with examples of ‘what works’ such as embedding social value in procurement and service delivery and consulting communities on local research and projects

Investment in Mental Health Yields Strong Returns, Review Finds

A review of existing literature confirms that investing in mental health interventions delivers significant value for money. Key strategies include evidence-based parenting programmes to prevent conduct disorders, early support hubs for youth not eligible for formal care, and Individual Placement and Support services, which outperform traditional employment schemes. The report urges policymakers to adopt holistic, tailored approaches to maximise impact and long-term outcomes.

Global Study Maps Human Flourishing Across 22 Countries

The Global Flourishing Study, a longitudinal survey involving over 200,000 participants across 22 countries, offers new insights into the determinants of well-being. Initial findings reveal how flourishing varies by demographics and childhood experiences, highlighting both universal and culturally specific patterns. This large-scale research aims to inform policies that promote holistic well-being worldwide.

Creating Healthy Jobs: A Necessity for Economic Growth

A University of Warwick study reveals poor job quality costs UK businesses up to £41 billion annually, with 1.77 million workers affected. The study identifies key job factors linked to worker ill health and calls for a shift from remedial to preventive action, including better regulation, improved job quality, and data-driven policy to ensure work supports, rather than damages, physical and mental health.

Fixing the Foundations: The Case for Investing in Children's Health

A report by the Institute for Public Policy research (IPPR) reveals worrying trends in England’s child health, with one in four children obese by the end of primary school, rising infant mortality, declining immunisation rates, and poor mental health outcomes. The UK ranks low among high-income countries for overall child wellbeing. The report stresses that improving children’s health is vital not only morally but also for achieving the government’s goals of better health, opportunity, and economic growth.

Bridging the Great Divide: Coordination of Primary and Secondary Care in the Management of Chronic Disease

The Health Foundation’s international case studies show that better primary-secondary care coordination is key to managing chronic diseases in the NHS. Success relies on strong teamwork, good communication, enough staff, clear policy support, and steady funding. Policymakers must back local teams with resources and focus to build effective integrated care and a ‘neighbourhood health service.’

The Impact of Work on Cognition and Physical Disability

A paper by the Institute for Fiscal Studies finds that continued employment significantly improves cognition and physical mobility in older women in England, especially among single women. Analysing a 2010–2017 policy change, it shows working longer boosts cognitive test scores and walking speed, though sedentary jobs may reduce physical exercise and walking speed.

Housing Affordability Varies Across the WMCA in 2024

Latest data released by the ONS revealed that, in 2024, the median house price in England was £290,000, equivalent to 7.7 times the median annual earnings of a full-time employee. Within the WMCA area, affordability varied, ranging from a ratio of 5.86 in Coventry (the most affordable) to 8.62 in Solihull (the least affordable).

Government Urged to Prioritise Homelessness Prevention in 2025 Spending Review

A joint report by the Institute for Government and the Centre for Homelessness Impact highlights the escalating homelessness crisis in the UK, exacerbated by the cost-of-living and housing challenges. It criticises the current reactive spending approach, noting that £2.4 billion is spent annually on temporary accommodation, while only £0.7 billion is allocated to prevention efforts. The report advocates for a strategic shift towards prevention, proposing integrated public services, improved data systems, and a £100 million investment fund to enhance long-term outcomes and reduce costs.

Reforming Anti-Supply Measures Could Unlock Thousands of Urban Homes

A new report by Centre for Cities identifies five restrictive planning policies, termed 'anti-supply measures', that hinder urban housebuilding in England. These include stringent space standards, dual aspect and overheating regulations, dual staircase requirements, high-rise building controls, and biodiversity net gain mandates. The report proposes reforms such as reducing space standards, allowing air conditioning to meet overheating requirements, and increasing building height limits. Implementing these changes could significantly boost housing supply, particularly in cities, and help meet the national target of 1.5 million new homes.

Expanding and Reforming the Role of the Local Government Pension Scheme in Driving Affordable Housing

A Localis report highlights the UK’s housing crisis as a complex issue of both insufficient supply and lack of affordable homes. It supports using the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) to fund large-scale housing delivery, arguing that with proper structures and government support, LGPS could provide long-term capital to tackle underinvestment and boost social and economic growth.

Revolution in Region’s Bus Services Promised After Mayor Signs Order to Take Back Control

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, is to revolutionise the region’s buses after giving the green light to proposals that will bring the network back under public control for the first time in almost 40 years. The landmark decision, signed by the Mayor after the WMCA Board meeting today (Friday, 9 May 2025), has kickstarted the transition process towards franchised bus services – replacing the current private operator-led network.

The Pathway to a Brighter Transport Future

The Urban Transport Group released a report with a call to action for the Government:

“This Spending Review is a critical moment to secure the future of public transport, cycling, walking and wheeling, moving us along the pathway to a brighter future. It presents an opportunity to invest in local transport to safeguard its vital contribution to achieving the Government’s missions. The chance to boost economic growth; promote healthy lives; keep our streets safe; break down barriers to opportunity; and accelerate to net zero.”

HS2 Rail Tunnel Breakthrough Completed in Birmingham

The longest railway tunnel ever built in West Midlands will help bring £10 billion into the region's economy over the next decade. A major construction milestone was achieved when HS2’s tunnelling machine finalised the first excavation of the 3.5 mile Bromford tunnel, which connects Warwickshire and Birmingham.

National Parking Platform Developments

Lilian Greenwood MP announced at the Traffex conference in Coventry that the National Parking Platform, currently used by 17 Local Authorities to provide a ‘one app fits all’ parking platform, will transfer to a not-for-profit organisation run by the British Parking Association. The platform will be the base for Digital Traffic Regulation Orders, a transformational change in the way traffic orders are managed. This will be the basis for a wide range of other use cases such as delivery parking bay booking.

Passengers Are One Step Closer to Eco-Friendly Flights

New sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) measures will support aviation expansion and meet decarbonisation goals with new laws introduced on 14 May 2025 which will increase homegrown sustainable aviation fuel, positioning the UK as a world leading destination for the new emerging market. The legislation will provide UK revenue certainty for green fuel producers, will boost jobs across the country, and enable the UK to go further and faster with expansion plans. Passengers will be a step closer to more eco-friendly flights, as £400,000 announced to get new fuels to market quicker, delivering on the UK’s clean energy ambitions and powering up economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

Improvements to Accessible Travel on Rail Replacement Coaches for Disabled People

£800k will fund technology innovations including a 3D animated avatar that allows passengers to ask questions through voice interaction or access audio via apps or QR codes, as part of the Government’s Plan for change.

Disconnected and Disempowered: Poverty Undermines Democratic Trust in the UK

A Carnegie UK-backed article in The Big Issue highlights how people experiencing poverty in England feel alienated from democratic processes. With over half of respondents lacking trust in government, the piece calls for deeper civic engagement beyond elections. It advocates for inclusive models like citizens’ juries and Poverty Truth Commissions to reconnect communities with decision-making, arguing that meaningful participation can rebuild trust and ensure policies reflect lived experiences.

Neighbourhood Power: Re:State Think Tank Proposes New Tier of Local Governance

The Re:State (formerly Reform) think tank's report Local, Actually calls for the creation of universal Neighbourhood Councils across England to address the growing democratic gap at the community level. As regional devolution expands, the report proposes a new, empowered hyperlocal governance tier to ensure every community has a credible voice. These councils would manage local assets, mobilise resources, and foster stronger civic engagement, aiming to rebuild trust and responsiveness in local government.

IPPR Urges Stronger Accountability for England’s New Mayors

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) highlights the need for clearer accountability mechanisms as England introduces large-scale mayoral authorities. The report notes that while governance procedures exist, they may not sufficiently prevent misuse of power or foster public trust. To ensure legitimacy and voter confidence, the IPPR proposes reforms to enhance transparency and citizen engagement in the evolving local government landscape.

Revitalised 'Total Place 2.0' Proposed to Improve Public Services

The Institute for Government insight paper advocates for 'Total Place 2.0,' urging the government to launch a revitalised initiative during its first spending review. This approach aims to bridge the disconnect between how public services are funded and how people actually use them by encouraging local agencies to pool resources, eliminate duplication, and design services around citizens’ real-life needs.

New Civil Service Act Proposed to Enhance Accountability

The Institute for Government’s report has proposed a new Civil Service Act to improve the management, functioning, and oversight of the UK civil service. The draft bill aims to define the civil service's remit, objectives, and values, enhancing its accountability and clarifying its role in policy-making and as constitutional guardians

Boosting Local Power: Report Calls for Data Reform in Combined Authorities

A new briefing from the Local Policy Innovation Partnership (LPIP) Hub urges better data sharing and transparency among England’s Combined Authorities. It outlines seven key reforms, including clearer governance, standardised data practices, and investment in local capacity. The report argues that improved data access is essential for evidence-based policymaking and delivering better outcomes for residents, calling on central and local governments to collaborate in overcoming current barriers.

Turn Climate Action into Competitive Advantage

A PwC insight reveals growing recognition among UK business leaders and investors of the economic value of climate-friendly investments. According to PwC’s 2025 UK CEO Survey, 87% of CEOs have made such investments, with 38% seeing revenue growth from new products or services. Investor support is also strong, with 74% willing to back climate-conscious companies. As climate change reshapes the global economy, businesses are adapting through both large-scale transitions and smaller efficiency measures. The key, PwC notes, is aligning sustainability efforts with clear commercial returns.

Landfill Tax Boosts Recycling Efforts

A study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies reveals that increasing landfill taxes significantly reduces landfill waste and boosts recycling rates. The research, focusing on Catalonia's 2017 tax reform, shows municipalities without door-to-door waste collection reduced landfill waste by an additional 12%, total waste by 4%, and increased recycling by 6 percentage points.

Youth Claimant Count Continues Rise

The latest WMCA Economic Dashboard shows both overall and youth claimant counts rising while the total number of payrolled employees in the WMCA area has fallen marginally.

School Leavers’ Qualification Rates Dip Since Pandemic

Data on the WISE Profiler shows the dip in the percentage of 19-year-olds qualified to level 3 (A-level) since the pandemic. After a long period of steady increases since 2010/2011, the trend reversed in 2022/23.

Crime Rates Continue to Fall Across the WMCA Area

The WISE Profiler dashboard shows crime numbers continued to fall in the last quarter of 2024. Rates peaked in Q3 2022 and have been falling ever since. Concerningly, sexual offences have seen a steady and consistent rise since 2013.