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Andy Burnham, in his inaugural speech since announcing his candidacy for prime minister, introduced a new Downing Street initiative called ‘No 10 North,’ based in Manchester. He described this unit as central to executing what he called “the biggest rebalancing of power our country has ever seen.” His vision centers on redistributing authority across the UK with the goal of fostering “good growth in every postcode.” Burnham’s agenda includes launching the largest council house building scheme since the post-war era, fundamentally overhauling the education system, and implementing welfare cuts.
Burnham’s speech, delivered at the People’s History Museum and attended by his former mayoral peers—Steve Rotheram, Tracy Brabin, and Oliver Coppard—emphasized transferring power from Whitehall’s senior civil servants to local communities. He argued that centralized control had “blocked” progress in cities like Manchester and insisted that growth cannot be decreed from the top down but must be cultivated from the grassroots. While he did not provide a detailed blueprint, Burnham suggested that regions could gain more control over essential services such as water, energy, and transportation, and that London might be granted greater influence over education and housing policies.
Expanding on his commitment to devolution, Burnham indicated that the plan would extend to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland by devolving powers deeper within these nations. He expressed concern that citizens in places like Dundee and Bangor feel as detached from their devolved governments as from Westminster. The newly proposed No 10 North would facilitate this redistribution of authority by supporting regional efforts in reforming critical utilities, revitalizing industry, and regenerating communities. This approach aligns with Labour’s 2024 manifesto, which pledged additional devolution powers to areas with existing mayors and combined authorities. In support of this, plans were announced in early 2025 for six new mayoral positions across regions including Cheshire and Warrington, Cumbria, and others.
On welfare, Burnham acknowledged the contentious nature of cutting the welfare bill, a topic that previously caused friction within Labour ranks. He committed to pursuing reductions “in a way that is fair and lasting,” with an emphasis on providing mental health support integrated into employment aid. Moreover, he suggested devolving employment support to local mayors and enhancing assistance through trusted grassroots organizations. Burnham also advocated for revamping education to focus less on university preparation and more on technical training, indicating a “complete rethink” of how the next generation is supported. Addressing economic policy, he proposed changes to business rates aimed at revitalizing pubs and high street shops, asserting that these areas should symbolize “Britain’s renaissance” rather than decline.
Burnham offered assurances about fiscal responsibility, promising sound public finances as the foundation for a “10 year mission to raise people’s living standards.” He recognized the urgency for change, pledging to act swiftly while avoiding risky financial moves. Since Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation, speculation has mounted about Burnham’s potential cabinet appointments, particularly the chancellor role. However, Burnham stated he would reserve announcements on these positions until after the leadership contest concludes. Currently, he is preparing for the transition of power by engaging in meetings with the civil service, authorized by Sir Keir, in so-called access talks typically held before general elections.
Responses from political figures have been mixed. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Burnham’s push for devolution, accusing him of wanting to “pass the problem to someone else” due to a lack of clear solutions. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey expressed skepticism, warning that promises of growth and cost-of-living cuts had been made before without effect. Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage acknowledged the potential of devolution but cautioned that creating two centers of power in the north and south might lead to conflict, and that national issues require national solutions. Green Party leader Zack Polanski questioned the effectiveness of devolving power without adequate funding, noting that austerity measures remain in place despite Burnham’s commitments. The SNP’s Westminster leader Dave Doogan dismissed the proposals as offering nothing substantive for Scotland nor improving the lives of its people
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