Andy Burnham has expressed his reservations about regional mayors utilizing additional funds from devolution to support tax reductions. The government has revealed that England’s mayors will soon have the opportunity to retain a portion of the income tax and business rates generated within their jurisdictions, amounting to tens of millions. This move aims to enable them to invest in initiatives that foster local economic growth as part of transformative plans to decentralize power away from central government.
Burnham emphasized that allowing mayors to retain a share of taxes would provide them with more resources to empower their regions. However, Ben Houchen, the Conservative mayor of Tees Valley, hinted at using income tax proceeds to offer rebates to local residents.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson opposed this approach, stating that he is uncomfortable with the idea of mayors acting as “mini Chancellors” and potentially altering tax and financial policies. He stressed that the primary goal is to spur growth and investment, citing the successful model that Greater Manchester has followed over the past decade, where increased economic growth translates into more resources for continued investment and growth.
During a community center event in Sheffield, Burnham addressed various issues, including indicating his intention to abandon proposals to limit jury trials in England and Wales, a plan associated with Keir Starmer. He highlighted the importance of maintaining jury trials as a cornerstone of the justice system, drawing on his experience advocating for justice in the Hillsborough disaster.
Regarding devolving powers on asylum hotel contracts and HMOs, Burnham expressed openness to discussions with regional mayors and the Home Secretary, emphasizing the potential benefits of local solutions over the current top-down approach that sometimes neglects local consultation and notification processes.
Reflecting on his initial weeks as Prime Minister, Johnson described the experience as intense but rewarding. He underscored his commitment to maintaining his political approach and not allowing the role to change him, viewing it as a privilege and an opportunity to reshape political discourse and governance in a collaborative and constructive manner.