Andy Burnham is considering relocating parts of his operations from Downing Street to Manchester in a bold move to decentralize power away from London. The former Greater Manchester mayor is set to propose establishing a “No10 in the North” if he assumes the role of Prime Minister. This strategic shift, as reported by the FT, is anticipated to be a key component of his agenda, focusing on devolution.
Burnham has been an outspoken critic of the London-centric political landscape, advocating for policies that prioritize the interests of his constituents in the North West, referred to as the “Makerfield test.” This move to potentially move a segment of the Prime Minister’s operations from London to Manchester could signal a significant departure from tradition. Previously, Rishi Sunak initiated a similar move by establishing a Treasury campus in Darlington, although other attempts to redistribute power outside of London have encountered challenges.
Various political figures, including Boris Johnson and John McDonnell, have previously floated ideas to relocate governmental entities outside of the capital, but these proposals have not materialized. As Burnham unveils his governmental vision and with the dwindling possibility of facing significant challengers, he edges closer to assuming office as Prime Minister on July 17.
Key figures within the Labour Party, such as Darren Jones, have acknowledged Burnham’s potential ascent to the premiership, expressing confidence in his ability to win leadership contests. Nevertheless, there is a call for Burnham to provide more clarity on his economic strategies to address concerns raised by numerous MPs following Keir Starmer’s resignation.
With the countdown to Burnham’s potential tenure in Downing Street underway, attention is turning to his selection of key personnel, particularly the Chancellor. Speculation surrounds the potential replacement of Rachel Reeves as Chancellor, with names like Ed Miliband and Wes Streeting being considered. Additionally, figures like Angela Rayner and Louise Haigh are among those likely to secure prominent roles in Burnham’s administration.
Notably, James Purnell, a former Labour minister, is expected to assume a crucial behind-the-scenes role as Burnham’s chief of staff. Burnham has also sought advice from prominent economic experts, including Andy Haldane, Richard Hughes, and Jim O’Neill, to help shape his policy agenda.
Lord O’Neill has endorsed the idea of redistributing power outside London, emphasizing the need for a more localized approach to addressing societal challenges. While he refrained from confirming reports of relocating parts of No10 to the North, he expressed enthusiasm for the prospect.