Stories

Mon, 29 Jun 2026

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 Burnham's 'Manchesterism' could change the UK, but is not yet a full economic plan

Andy Burnham's speech depicted a different way of seeing and running the UK, though there are many other questions about the detail.
Andy Burnham, departing Greater Manchester mayor, delivered a speech in Manchester that presented a critical analysis of the UK's economic malaise and proposed ambitious solutions for revitalizing the country. His diagnosis, rooted in his own experiences as mayor and Cabinet member, identified the unresponsive British state as a primary cause of economic stagnation. Burnham called for decentralization of power from the centre to regions and cities, similar to other advanced countries. He shared a personal anecdote about his time as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, where he was thwarted by the Treasury's cost-benefit analysis when trying to secure funding for a northern equivalent to London's Crossrail. While Burnham's speech did not provide detailed economic plans, including assessments of tax, spend, investment, and infrastructure strategies, it outlined general policy directions on business rates, housebuilding, technical education, and infrastructure. He emphasized the need for devolution and industrial policy as part of a broader five-part plan to address the UK's economic challenges. Burnham also touched on his commitment to prudent spending and borrowing, stating he would stick to existing borrowing rules and backing the Milburn Review into young people's employment outcomes, which could lead to welfare savings. He proposed devolving decision-making and investment powers from the south east to the northern powerhouse rail, potentially requiring extra borrowing powers for regions. However, this approach raises questions about how Burnham plans to square his ambition with existing fiscal rules and tax commitments, particularly in light of potential policy choices on welfare spending and Brexit reset discussions. The announcement of his chancellor will be made after three weeks.