Adam Cailler, a senior reporter and Manchester resident, has issued a stark warning about Andy Burnham as the former Mayor of Greater Manchester becomes an MP. Cailler describes living under Burnham's rule for years, highlighting a massive ego and expensive failures.
Burnham's Self-Image and Manchester's Reality
During Burnham's swearing-in as an MP, a heckler shouted, "He's not the Messiah," a sentiment Cailler says resonates with many locals. While Westminster views Burnham as the "King of the North," Cailler argues that inside Manchester, the reality is different. He states that Manchester became synonymous with Burnham, and vice versa, with the city's identity overshadowed by the mayor's personal brand.
The Bee Network: Cracks in the Crown
Credit is given to Burnham's Bee Network transport system for keeping prices low, but Cailler, a daily user, notes that buses are already falling apart and rarely on time. He describes this as Andy's crowning achievement with visible cracks.
Neglect of Outer Areas and Costly Failures
Cailler asserts that Burnham focused primarily on central Manchester, leaving other areas desperate for attention and regeneration, which local councils funded through rapidly increasing council tax. A major failure was the Greater Manchester Clean Air Zone, Burnham's version of London's ULEZ. Signs appeared across the city warning of charges for certain vehicles, but the scheme was scrapped after costing over £100 million. Those signs remain as reminders of the failure.
Double Taxation and Rising Costs
Residents face an additional £150+ per year through the Greater Manchester Mayoral Precept, supposedly for region-wide services like public transport and emergency services. However, Cailler points out that separate council tax amounts for these services also appear on bills, effectively forcing Mancunians to pay twice. Burnham has increased this precept every year since taking power.
The National Stage: A Warning for the UK
Cailler warns that the country will now experience the "Andy Burnham Show," with Burnham appearing at every event, on TV, and in newspapers. He cautions that the "King of the North" becoming the "Political King of the UK" may not be beneficial for the country, citing the ego and costly mistakes seen in Manchester.
