MANCHESTER, England (AP) – Andy Burnham, widely regarded as Britain's presumptive next prime minister, is set to unveil plans on Monday aimed at devolving more powers to local government. This initiative is part of his broader vision to cultivate wealth and foster economic growth across the UK.
In a significant speech, Burnham will articulate an extensive economic vision as he seeks to engage voters, party colleagues, and financial markets in his ideas during his swift ascent to power. His office has indicated that Burnham intends to present a comprehensive 10-year plan for "good growth in every postcode," reflecting a desire to address the stark economic disparities that see wealth and influence predominantly centered around London and the south of England.
The speech, scheduled to take place in Manchester—where Burnham served as mayor for nine years—will detail how he plans to relocate part of his future prime ministerial operation to the northwest city. Furthermore, he will pledge to enhance the powers of regional mayors regarding housing, welfare, and education, effectively moving towards replicating the successful strategies he employed in Greater Manchester on a broader, national scale.
Burnham’s approach in Manchester has been characterized by the strategic use of both private and public finance to invest in vital areas such as transport, housing, and infrastructure. In his speech, he will also promise the creation of new industrial jobs alongside improved educational opportunities. Another key aspect of his vision includes the reform of the UK's costly and inefficient privatized water and energy utilities.
Despite the praise Burnham received for revitalizing Manchester, it is important to note that he has not been part of the UK government for nearly two decades. This raised concerns about his ability to translate the "Manchesterism" model across the entire country. Additionally, Burnham will be conscious of competition, particularly from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has also embarked on a transformative 10-year agenda following his election in July 2024. Starmer's tenure has been troubled by various missteps that have diminished his credibility among party members and the electorate.
Burnham secured a special election victory for a parliamentary seat on June 18 and took the oath of office on June 22, the same day Starmer announced his resignation plans upon the selection of a successor. As the leading candidate to replace Starmer in an upcoming Labour Party leadership race, Burnham appears poised to ascend to the role of prime minister by July 20, provided that no formidable competitors enter the race.
While Burnham is viewed as more charismatic than his predecessor, challenges lie ahead, including a sluggish economy, deteriorating public services, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. He will also need to navigate the existing platform upon which the Labour Party was elected in 2024, which includes commitments not to raise taxes on working individuals.
Furthermore, like many NATO nations, the UK faces mounting pressures to substantially increase defense spending in light of an increasingly assertive Russia and uncertainties surrounding US reliability. A comprehensive defense investment plan, which has already led to the resignation of Defense Secretary John Healey on June 11, is anticipated to be released ahead of a NATO summit scheduled for July 7 and 8. Burnham’s successor is expected to adhere to the commitments outlined in this plan.
In response to Burnham's proposals, opposition Conservative Party Chairman Kevin Hollinrake criticized his vision, stating that it merely involves redistributing power among politicians without addressing critical issues such as welfare reform, tax relief for working families, and necessary funding for national defense.
