West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin has outlined a series of key policy priorities, including advocating for the removal of the two-child benefit cap, pushing for increased regional economic control, and proposing a tourist tax to fund local infrastructure. Her statements came during a recent appearance on BBC Radio Leeds’ “Message the Mayor” program.
Addressing “Working Poverty”
Brabin highlighted the prevalence of “working poverty” in West Yorkshire, where half of children in some communities live below the poverty line. She argued that the two-child benefit cap unfairly penalizes larger families and hinders economic mobility. The recent Budget decision to scrap this cap is seen by Brabin as a critical step toward supporting low-income households.
“For various circumstances, you might have three children, but just because you have three means you are poorer as a family – it is absolutely shaming.”
This policy shift is particularly relevant given broader trends of wage stagnation and rising living costs, making it harder for even employed individuals to maintain financial stability. The removal of the cap is intended to mitigate this issue by providing additional financial support to families in need.
Empowering Mayors Through Regional Funding
Brabin emphasized the economic success of West Yorkshire, citing growth rates that rival Greater Manchester and surpass London. She championed the new “integrated settlement” funding model, which consolidates government funding into a single pot controlled by regional mayors. This empowers local leaders to allocate resources based on regional needs, rather than national priorities.
This move reflects a broader trend toward devolution and increased regional autonomy in the UK. By granting mayors greater financial control, the government aims to stimulate localized economic development and foster more responsive governance.
Proposed Tourist Tax for Infrastructure Investment
The mayor also proposed implementing a modest tax on overnight visitors to West Yorkshire. The revenue generated would be reinvested in local infrastructure, including public transportation and support for major events. Brabin referenced York and North Yorkshire, where such a tax could generate tens of millions of pounds annually.
This proposal aligns with a growing trend of tourism levies in cities worldwide, where visitor fees are used to offset the costs of maintaining tourism-related infrastructure and services. The mayor cited West Yorkshire’s 73 million annual visitors as a substantial potential revenue source.
White Rose Station and Diplomatic Climate Trip
Brabin addressed the stalled White Rose station project in Leeds, expressing frustration with the delays. She stated her commitment to restarting work by 2026 but offered no guarantees. The project, jointly funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and private company Munroe K, has faced setbacks under previous leadership.
Finally, Brabin defended her recent trip to Brazil as a diplomatic effort to promote regional interests. The context of this trip is not fully explained in the original article, though it suggests an attempt to forge international partnerships.
In conclusion, West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin is actively pursuing policies designed to alleviate poverty, empower local governance, and fund regional infrastructure through innovative revenue streams. Her approach reflects a growing emphasis on decentralization and economic self-determination at the regional level.
