Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is pushing for a major devolution deal, seeking more control over trains, housing, and college funding. The 'Trailblazer' talks, initiated after the Levelling Up White Paper in February 2022, have been delayed by political turmoil in Westminster, including Boris Johnson's resignation and Liz Truss's short premiership.
Burnham has called for a single block grant similar to Scotland and Wales, and described rail powers as the 'biggest missing piece in the jigsaw'. However, negotiations remain tough, with insiders saying rail is the biggest sticking point. Talks have been ongoing daily, often via video calls, and officials are optimistic but tight-lipped.
The return of Michael Gove as Levelling Up Secretary under Rishi Sunak has been welcomed by Burnham, who has praised the Conservative minister. Gove acknowledged resistance in Whitehall to devolving power, but said this mindset is 'diminishing'. The deal is hoped to be announced by the Spring Budget on March 15, before local election restrictions kick in.
