Andy Burnham, the man widely expected to become the next Prime Minister, has pledged to extend devolution in Wales as part of a broader plan to redistribute power across the UK. In his first major speech since becoming an MP, the Makerfield MP outlined his vision for a 'rewired Britain' with a new 'Number 10 North' based in Manchester.
Devolution Promise
Speaking at The People's Museum in Manchester, Burnham said: 'The days of Whitehall fighting the devolution power into the regions and nations are over for good.' He emphasized that the new office would work to extend devolution in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, taking power 'deeper down' to communities that feel distant from their own devolved governments.
Vision for Number 10 North
Burnham described the proposed Number 10 North as 'the nerve centre of a rewired Britain' that would coordinate all levels of government to agree a long-term economic strategy. It would be tasked with 'striving for equivalent living conditions in all parts of Britain' and ensuring that all government departments support local authorities with staffing and resources.
He stated: 'I have had 10 years of fighting the Whitehall machine blocking progress... I am simply not prepared to accept the same for any area coming after Greater Manchester.'
Focus on Growth
Burnham promised growth in 'every British postcode,' addressing issues such as inadequate transport in rural economies and industrial transition in areas like Port Talbot, Scunthorpe, and Aberdeen. He also spoke about housing, education targets, and high street decline, outlining a 'ten year mission' to drive change.
He criticized the current Westminster system as 'more fragmented and disjointed' than when he left it to become Mayor of Greater Manchester. Burnham is currently the only candidate to replace Keir Starmer as Labour leader, with the leadership election potentially concluding next month if no challenger emerges.
