Prime Minister Andy Burnham is aiming for a cross-party consensus on urgent social care reforms, stating a commitment to “problem-solving, not point-scoring.” He has invited Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey to discuss how to enact these reforms, with both parties understood to be represented.
Mr Burnham is expected to deliver a speech on Wednesday, where he will outline his strategy for addressing social care. The speech is anticipated to confirm plans to accelerate the independent review led by Louise Casey.
Kemi Badenoch will not attend the meeting due to pre-planned minor surgery, with Shadow Health Secretary Stuart Andrew representing the Conservatives. The Prime Minister is understood to favour exploring a new system that would be free at the point of use, similar to the NHS, regarding other options like a care costs cap as less attractive despite being potentially cheaper for taxpayers.