A new Manchester Evening News podcast, The Mancunian Way, debuts with an in-depth look at Andy Burnham's first week as Prime Minister. The podcast features editors and reporters discussing the former mayor's transition to national leadership.
Quotes on Burnham's Confidence
“I wouldn't go as far as to say if he was an ice cream, he'd lick himself. But I think this is not a guy who struggles with putting himself out there,” said Features and Perspectives Editor Rob Williams. MEN Editor-in-Chief Sarah Lester added: “He doesn't think he can solve the problems, he in himself absolutely believes he can solve the problems.”
Vision for ‘Number 10 North’
Burnham is promising a radical shake-up, building “Number 10 North” in Manchester to decentralize power from Whitehall. The podcast explores how his mayoral experience shapes this national agenda and how he plans to “re-wire the entire nation.”
Rob Williams noted the articles already emerging about Burnham’s self-assurance, while highlighting his likability: “He is incredibly likeable. I mean even sort of the interview that Patrick Maguire did with him from The Times - quite often, journalists become slightly transfixed in his gaze, you know, as soon as he turns your attention to you.”
First Days in Office
The first episode, hosted by Beth Abbit, includes reflections on Burnham’s initial moves, including gaining support from Donald Trump and Jeremy Corbyn on his first day. The panel questions how his premiership will unfold and how his background as an English graduate and former wannabe journalist will influence his communication style.
