Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, has developed a political philosophy dubbed 'Manchesterism' that could offer a way forward for the UK, according to commentator John Harris. The approach blends collectivism and entrepreneurialism, drawing on the region's history and Burnham's own evolution from a more centrist Labour figure to a vocal advocate for devolution and economic reform.
Burnham's pitch includes a sharp critique of the past 40 years, which he argues have seen power and wealth drained from the north of England through deregulation, privatisation, and austerity. He highlights the high cost of basics like energy, housing, water, and transport as symptoms of a system that benefits the already wealthy. This message, though not overly sophisticated, resonates with many who have lost faith in politics.
The mayor's journey has been one of increasing confidence and clarity. In 2015, he ran for Labour leader with a platform that included support for benefit cuts, but he later admitted that was a mistake, saying he listened to bad advice and was not authentic. Since becoming mayor in 2017, he has deepened his engagement with centre-left groups like Compass and developed a more grounded, ideas-driven approach.
Central to Manchesterism is the concept of the 'productive state', as outlined by thinktank Common Wealth. This vision emphasises social housing, challenges the narrative that welfare spending reflects personal failure, and positions Burnham as an outsider taking on Westminster's dysfunction. Harris suggests this could offer a specifically English critique of broken systems, a space currently monopolised by Nigel Farage.
Burnham's growing influence was evident at the Great North Investment Summit in Leeds, where he spoke about people's complete loss of faith in politics. His ability to connect with diverse audiences, including at Glastonbury, and his focus on tangible ideas set him apart from other leaders, including Keir Starmer, according to Harris.
