In a compelling address that has sent ripples through political circles, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has issued a stark warning about the state of British democracy. The former Labour minister argues that the United Kingdom requires fundamental political reform to prevent national decline and address deepening regional divides.
A System Stacked Against the Regions
Burnham pulled no punches in his assessment, describing a political framework where power remains disproportionately concentrated in Westminster. "The current system isn't working for vast swathes of the country," he asserted, highlighting how centralised decision-making has exacerbated the North-South divide and left many communities feeling powerless.
The Mayor emphasised that this isn't merely about regional pride but about national prosperity. "When Manchester, Birmingham, or Leeds succeed, Britain succeeds. But our current model stifles that potential," Burnham stated, calling for a new constitutional settlement that would empower England's great cities and regions.
The Case for Radical Devolution
At the heart of Burnham's argument lies a powerful case for meaningful devolution. He proposes transferring significant powers from Whitehall to combined authorities across England, covering areas such as:
- Transport and infrastructure planning
- Housing and spatial development
- Skills and adult education
- Economic regeneration
- Health and social care integration
This approach, he suggests, would create more responsive governance tailored to local needs while reducing the bureaucratic bottlenecks of central government control.
Learning from the Devolved Nations
Burnham pointed to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland as examples of how devolved power can drive innovation and better policy outcomes. "The nations of the UK have shown what's possible when decisions are made closer to people," he observed, while noting that England remains one of the most centralised countries in Europe.
The Mayor warned that continuing with the status quo risks fuelling discontent and undermining the Union itself. "If people in England's regions don't feel they have a voice or see tangible improvements, faith in our political system will continue to erode," he cautioned.
A Cross-Party Appeal for Change
Significantly, Burnham framed this not as a partisan issue but as a national imperative. He called for politicians across the spectrum to engage in serious dialogue about constitutional reform, suggesting that the next government, regardless of its political colour, must prioritise rebalancing the country.
"This isn't about left versus right—it's about centralisation versus local empowerment," Burnham explained. "The challenges we face, from economic stagnation to public service reform, require solutions that Westminster alone cannot provide."
As the UK approaches its next general election, Burnham's intervention adds weight to growing calls for political renewal. His message is clear: without serious reform to decentralise power and revitalise democracy, the country risks continued decline and deepening division.
