Labour leadership frontrunner Andy Burnham has unveiled an ambitious plan to hand greater powers to regional governments if he becomes the United Kingdom’s next prime minister, promising what he described as the biggest transfer of power away from Westminster in modern British history.
Speaking during a keynote address in Manchester on Monday, Burnham said Britain needs a new political direction that gives local communities more control over decisions affecting their economies, public services and development.
The former Greater Manchester mayor, who is currently the only candidate to succeed Keir Starmer as Labour leader and prime minister, said the country is too heavily controlled from the centre and pledged to reverse that trend through sweeping devolution reforms.
According to Burnham, empowering regional leaders would help improve living standards, boost economic growth and create a government that responds more effectively to the needs of local communities.
“We need to change politics, and we need to do it now. I want to bring about the biggest rebalancing of power our country has ever seen,” Burnham said.
As part of his proposals, Burnham announced plans to establish a “No. 10 North” in Manchester, which would work alongside Downing Street to coordinate regional development and oversee the government’s devolution agenda.
He also promised a major council housing programme, describing it as the biggest public house-building drive since the post-war era, although he did not explain how the project would be financed.
Burnham said he remains committed to maintaining fiscal discipline while reducing welfare spending and creating a more efficient government focused on economic regeneration.
The Labour politician also promoted his economic philosophy, which he calls “Manchesterism,” combining support for businesses with greater public involvement in key sectors such as transport, water and energy.
He pledged stronger backing for entrepreneurs, scientists, innovators and creative industries while proposing lower business rates for pubs and music venues to encourage local economic growth.
Burnham could become Britain’s next prime minister as early as mid-July following Keir Starmer’s resignation last week.
If elected, he would inherit an economy facing rising inflation and slowing growth after recent global tensions disrupted Britain’s economic recovery.
Political observers are also closely watching who Burnham may appoint as Chancellor if he takes office, amid speculation that current Finance Minister Rachel Reeves could be replaced.
Source: AFP
