Andy Burnham, the Makerfield MP and former mayor of Greater Manchester, is set to deliver a devolution and economy speech outlining what he describes as a “circuit-breaker” for Britain. Multiple outlets report that his remarks include a flagship proposal to create a “No 10 in the North,” as part of a wider push for greater regional devolution. The plan is presented as an approach to improve economic outcomes across the country, with references to achieving “good growth in every postcode.”
One outlet also says Burnham will frame the programme as a radical 10-year plan aimed at lifting living standards, linking the proposal to efforts to “transform UK” governance and support better economic performance. The Scotsman additionally reports that Burnham is expected to argue for changes to public procurement, including centring procurement on “buying British.”
Across coverage, the common themes are increased devolution, a long-term economic strategy, and interventions intended to raise living standards and rebalance economic activity toward the regions.
