As part of the budget 2026 announcements today (28/10/2026), the UK government has confirmed the appointment Andrew Pakes, Labour & Co-operative MP for Peterborough, as the new co-operatives and mutuals champion. The champion will work across government and report to the Economic secretary to the Treasury and the minister for small business and enterprise, in to order to:
- Liaise with the co-operatives and mutuals sector to identify opportunities for, and barriers to, the growth of the sector, in line with the manifesto commitment to double the size of the sector.
- Communicate those opportunities and barriers to government and assist in developing relevant policy.
- Raise the profile across government and in Parliament of the co-operative and mutual model as a driver of inclusive economic growth, regional development, and community wealth building.
- Represent the interests of the sector in relevant government discussions and forums.
You can read the full terms of reference on the Gov UK website, or download the PDF below.
Co-operatives and Mutuals Champion - Terms of reference
