Andy Burnham Demands Major Westminster Reform: 'UK's Political System is Broken'
Andy Burnham: UK's Political System Needs Major Reform

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has launched a blistering attack on Westminster, declaring the UK's political system "broken" and demanding radical constitutional reform to address the North-South divide.

The prominent Labour figure warned that the current London-centric model of governance is failing millions of citizens outside the capital, creating stark regional inequalities that have persisted for decades.

The Case for Regional Empowerment

Burnham argues that meaningful devolution is the only solution to bridge England's deep economic and social divides. He contends that decisions affecting communities in the North should be made by those who understand their unique challenges, not by distant Whitehall bureaucrats.

"We need a major change in the way our country is run," Burnham stated. "The over-centralisation of power in London has left entire regions feeling ignored and undervalued. It's time to fundamentally rethink how we distribute power across the UK."

Beyond Token Devolution

The mayor criticised current devolution arrangements as insufficient, describing them as "piecemeal" and lacking real substance. He called for a comprehensive overhaul that would grant English regions powers comparable to those held by devolved nations like Scotland and Wales.

This would include greater control over economic development, transportation infrastructure, and healthcare systems tailored to local needs rather than one-size-fits-all policies dictated from London.

A System in Crisis

Burnham's intervention comes amid growing frustration with Westminster's perceived inability to address regional disparities effectively. Many northern communities feel left behind despite repeated government promises to "level up" the country.

The mayor emphasised that constitutional reform isn't just about political fairness but economic necessity, arguing that unleashing regional potential could boost national prosperity significantly.

As the debate about the UK's constitutional future intensifies, Burnham has positioned himself as a leading voice for regional empowerment, challenging all major parties to embrace meaningful change rather than offering superficial solutions.