Andy Burnham Proposes Devolution Plan in Major Policy Speech

Andy Burnham, the Makerfield MP and a contender for prime minister, is set to deliver his first major policy speech this week, proposing a comprehensive devolution plan. This initiative aims to achieve "growth in every postcode" across the UK, shifting power and spending away from London. Burnham's vision is heavily influenced by his early 2024 book, "Head North," co-authored with Liverpool city region mayor Steve Rotheram. The book argues that the north of England has been disadvantaged by centralized power in the south and advocates for significant rebalancing through the devolution of decision-making and spending powers.

The "Head North" book outlines a 10-point plan, elements of which are expected to form the core of Burnham's "Burnham project" if he were to enter Downing Street. This speech is seen as a crucial indicator of his core political motivations and his overarching goals for national policy. The emphasis on devolution builds upon the work already undertaken by metro mayors in various regions, suggesting a strategy to empower local areas and foster more equitable development.

Burnham's approach contrasts with the initial policy rollout of Keir Starmer, the current Labour leader, who, upon becoming Prime Minister, published his missions and first steps. While Starmer's early tenure was characterized by a broad policy agenda, some observers felt his central driving motivation was less clear. Burnham, conversely, has articulated a singular focus on rebalancing national power and investment through devolution, a theme consistently present in his public statements and writings since early 2024.