Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has unveiled an expansive vision for reforming how Britain is governed, advocating for a significant shift of power and resources towards local authorities. Speaking after a recent by-election success, Mr Burnham articulated his ambition to oversee "the biggest change in our lifetime to the way Britain is run," painting a picture of a more localised and equitable nation.
Central to Mr Burnham's proposals is the empowerment of local government to manage crucial services currently overseen by Whitehall. He envisions a future where every high street prospers, homes are universally accessible, and local councils become efficient providers of essential services such as water, energy, and transport. This, he argues, would lead to reduced household bills and improved community well-being, fostering "good growth in every postcode and hope in every heart." The Mayor has been critical of what he perceives as bureaucratic obstacles from central government, suggesting these currently hinder local progress.
However, Mr Burnham's ambitious agenda has drawn comparisons to the economic approach of former Prime Minister Liz Truss. Critics suggest that while his vision is clear, the practicalities of funding such a wide-ranging transformation within existing fiscal rules, and without a clear mandate, remain largely unaddressed. The feasibility of achieving these goals while adhering to Labour's current manifesto commitments is also being questioned, with some commentators likening his proposals to a "left-wing Liz Truss experiment" – acting as if affordability and mandate are assumed.
Historically, various administrations have explored greater local control. The 2010 Conservative manifesto, for instance, promoted a 'Big Society' initiative, aiming to empower individuals and local government. More recently, the 'Northern Powerhouse' concept and the proliferation of regional mayors have sought to devolve power. However, Mr Burnham's vision distinguishes itself by explicitly advocating for a 'Big State' approach at the local level, contrasting with the Conservatives' emphasis on community-led initiatives.
The debate over increased devolution is not new, and previous experiences in Wales and Scotland offer varied perspectives. Critics of Mr Burnham's plan point to challenges faced by devolved administrations, particularly concerning public services like health and education, raising questions about whether more extensive devolution would genuinely lead to improved outcomes across the UK.