Headline: Prime Minister Starmer Seeks Ideas from UK Regulators to Boost Growth

In the UK, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has written to the country's major regulatory bodies requesting suggestions for reforms that could enhance economic growth. Engaging with regulators including energy regulator Ofgem and water regulator Ofwat ahead of Christmas, Starmer has requested proposals to be submitted by mid-January.

This letter follows the release of figures earlier this week indicating that the UK economy remained stagnant between July and September. Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith claimed that, after the Labour Party's damaging budget, the government is "having to beg its own government for growth," stating that it "tells you everything you need to know about Sir Keir's government."

The letter, which also appears to have been sent to the Environment Agency, Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and healthcare regulators, was first reported by Sky News.

In the letter, signed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the ministers emphasized that cooperation is necessary to ensure the regulatory environment is "more growth and investment friendly" while respecting the independence of the regulators. The FCA stated it would respond to the letter in the new year, adding that it has implemented measures since the summer to support growth, including reorganizing information for retail investors and proposing enhancements to workplace pensions. The letter highlighted that improving regulations in a way that enables growth while avoiding investment hindrances is "a significant part" of the government's growth mission.