Even before the general election, Labour was acutely aware of the need to make an impact during its first 100 days in government, if it were to win. Plans were drawn up and preparations made. But by October 12, which marked the first 100 days of the Starmer government, little seemed to have gone right, apart from in transport.
The first 100 days after an election has become important to any new administration. Starting with Franklin Roosevelt who, as US President, openly reflected on the progress made during his first 100 days in office. It was a period of significant legislative activity, with 15 bills through Congress, designed to address the economic and social hardships created by the Great Depression and create the New Deal. Since then, government and the media have become fixated on the idea of what happens in the first 100 days.
There is no doubt that it sets the tone for what can be expected for the rest of the government's time in office. That is what has made these 100 days even more disappointing. Whether you support the government or not, the narrative has been allowed to take root focusing on a financial black hole, economic doom, expenses and Taylor Swift tickets.
There is though one area where there has been a more positive agenda, and some cut through with the public – transport policy.
Louise Haigh, as Secretary of State for Transport, and her Ministerial and advisory teams have undoubtedly made significant progress. The policies brought forward seem a welcome alternative antidote to the less than positive tone for the government as a whole. It could be suggested the DfT is a model for the other departments to follow.
Most important has been starting the process for the establishment of Great British Railways (GBR). That was such a symbolic moment for many and bringing railways back into public ownership was always one of Labour's most popular policies. The appointment of Laura Shoaf as Chair of the Shadow GBR was another smart move by Haigh and was warmly welcomed.
But it is not just rail that has received attention. Buses are being brought under local control and electric buses received a funding boost. Progress has started to be made in delivering the 'pothole pledge' of fixing up to one million a year. Employment rights have been a theme of the government, reinforced by the rights for seafarers, but it was the ending of the rail strikes that arguably made most impression. It is not that the transport sector will be without strikes but bringing an end to a high-profile and long running dispute was a very necessary priority.
Another long running complaint, especially from younger people, was the problem of securing a driving test. Again, the transport team have been on that. Other 'crowd pleasers' include taking action with a five-point plan to tackle overcrowding at Euston station. Plus, whilst no actual decisions have been made, there was a welcome change of approach on HS2.
Then, there has been transport's fight to remain a priority after the forthcoming Budget. Haigh's letter to Chancellor, along with those from other ministers, are an important signal to the sector that she is fighting hard to secure much-needed funding. But it may also mean that transport is well positioned where it comes to, for instance, priority projects for the new National Wealth Fund.
Transport's own 100 days have arguably been more successful than the government's. The reality is that if Labour is to have any chance of winning the next General Election, it needs to see more of the policy delivery we have seen from transport and less of a focus on Taylor Swift.
