Andy Burnham vows to set up No 10 North as ‘nerve centre of rewired Britain’

Andy Burnham, the likely next UK Prime Minister, plans to establish "No 10 North" as a central hub for a significant devolution of power and resources across the UK. He argues the current Westminster system is "broken" and proposes this new structure to oversee increased public ownership of utilities, reindustrialization, and town regeneration. Burnham also indicated a potential early cost of living support package to address immediate concerns. His vision aims to rebalance the country, improve living standards, and restore public faith in politics by moving away from a centralized Whitehall approach. He emphasized a commitment to sound public finances and a broad approach to governance.

Andy Burnham, Britain's presumptive next prime minister, has outlined a plan to devolve more power to local governments to foster economic growth and spread wealth across the country. Speaking from Manchester, where he previously served as mayor, Burnham criticized Westminster as "broken" and presented a ten-year vision for "good growth in every postcode." His strategy aims to address the concentration of wealth and power in London and the south of England, ensuring that other regions are not overlooked. Burnham intends to establish a "Number 10 north" in Manchester, which will serve as the central hub for his prime ministerial operations. This initiative seeks to replicate his successful approach in Manchester, which involved leveraging public and private funds for investments in infrastructure, housing, and transport.

Andy Burnham, the frontrunner to become the UK's next prime minister, is set to unveil his economic and devolution plans in a major policy speech. The address, taking place in Manchester, will outline a 10-year mission aimed at raising living standards through reindustrialisation, housing, infrastructure, and utility reform. A key proposal will be devolving power to regions and local communities, a concept his office describes as "Manchesterism." Burnham, who recently returned to Parliament, is currently the only declared candidate to replace Keir Starmer and could take leadership by mid-July. His economic stance is described as pro-business socialist, with a commitment to current government borrowing limits.

Andy Burnham, a Labour lawmaker, is set to unveil his plan for governing Britain on Monday. His office stated that his vision involves shifting power away from London and towards the regions. Burnham recently returned to Westminster after winning a parliamentary seat and is currently the sole declared candidate to succeed Keir Starmer as leader. Starmer announced his intention to step down last week, following a decline in his popularity, despite securing a significant parliamentary majority for Labour two years prior. Burnham could potentially become prime minister within weeks.

Andy Burnham, in his first major speech since winning the Makerfield byelection and positioning himself as a potential future Prime Minister, plans to advocate for significant devolution of power from Whitehall to local communities. He aims to deliver "good growth in every postcode" by shifting decision-making to regions and communities to foster local economic development, replacing the current centralized model. Burnham is reportedly considering granting local authorities more control over taxes, such as business rates. His platform for government, which he will outline in a speech in Manchester, includes a 10-year mission to raise living standards through reindustrialization, housing, infrastructure, and utility improvements, with some infrastructure funds also likely to be devolved. He also intends to move parts of the No. 10 operation to Manchester to coordinate economic renewal.

Labour's deputy leader, Lucy Powell, has indicated that Ed Miliband would be a "good" chancellor for potential future Prime Minister Andy Burnham. While acknowledging Miliband's suitability for the Treasury role, Powell also described speculation about cabinet posts as "unedifying," urging focus on job creation. Some within Burnham's camp see Miliband as capable of challenging Treasury orthodoxy, but acknowledge the political risk of his appointment due to concerns from markets, big business, and some unions regarding his stance on the North Sea and net zero agenda. Burnham is expected to deliver a speech on economic plans and fiscal responsibility, with his choice of chancellor potentially signaling his approach. Other potential candidates for chancellor include Shabana Mahmood, Wes Streeting, Yvette Cooper, and John Healey. Both Powell and Steve Reed ruled out holding a general election at this time.

Andy Burnham is poised to become the next UK Prime Minister, succeeding Keir Starmer, who announced his resignation. Burnham, formerly the mayor of Greater Manchester, has returned to Parliament and is expected to take over leadership of the Labour Party and the country on July 17. While Burnham is popular and promises a change in tone, he faces the challenge of implementing his own policies while being constrained by the Labour Party's existing platform, which secured their victory in 2024. His immediate focus will be on boosting the economy and addressing the cost of living, issues Starmer struggled with. Burnham's economic vision, which he will outline next week, aims to revive the economy without exceeding current spending and borrowing plans, a stance intended to reassure markets. He also plans to decentralize government power and may move some prime ministerial operations outside of London.

The article ranks six British prime ministers who served between 2016 and 2026, with a seventh expected by mid-July. David Cameron is ranked last, identified as the architect of political chaos due to his decision to hold the EU referendum and his subsequent resignation. Liz Truss is placed second to last, noted for causing significant damage during her 49-day tenure, particularly with the mini-budget. Boris Johnson is ranked third, described as driven by ego and lacking a clear vision for the country, using the Vote Leave campaign as a path to power. The article critiques the shallow pool of prime ministerial talent and the circumstances leading to these individuals' appointments.

Britain is experiencing a rapid turnover of prime ministers, with the country on track for its seventh in a decade, a stark contrast to the post-war era of stable leadership. While factors like social media and Brexit have contributed, the article argues the deeper issue lies in the changing relationship between prime ministers and their own MPs. Since the 1970s, MPs have become more willing to rebel and challenge leaders, leading to prime ministers being removed by internal party pressure rather than solely by voters. This internal dissent, coupled with volatile voters and a weakening two-party system, has made Downing Street a significantly harder place to survive.

Rachel Reeves has publicly endorsed Andy Burnham for Prime Minister, despite reports suggesting she might be moved from her Chancellor role if he wins. Reeves stated she and Burnham are friends and did not rule out a less senior cabinet position, emphasizing that leadership decisions are Burnham's to make. She defended her fiscal rules, noting they already accommodate increased defense borrowing, and highlighted her commitment to improving defense spending efficiency. Allies of Reeves have reportedly lobbied Burnham to retain her as Chancellor for stability. Speculation is also ongoing regarding Burnham's potential choices for Chancellor, with Wes Streeting and Ed Miliband being discussed as possibilities, each with different perceived strengths.

A decade after the UK voted to leave the EU, the bloc has moved on and consolidated, while Britain continues to debate its relationship with the continent. Following the 2016 vote, the EU rallied and set its terms for negotiations, successfully navigating challenges like the pandemic and the war in Ukraine. During its EU membership, the UK was often a voice against deeper integration. Now, the EU views Brexit as a historical episode, with former officials suggesting the final deal favors the EU. In contrast, the UK faces ongoing debate about its future ties, with significant support among younger voters for rejoining the EU, though this remains a long-term prospect dependent on British consensus.

Britain is facing political uncertainty following the resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, marking the country's seventh prime minister in a decade. This rapid turnover, which includes David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Rishi Sunak, raises questions about the effectiveness of Britain's political system. Starmer's Labour party had won a landslide victory in 2024, promising competence and stability after 14 years of Conservative rule characterized by Brexit divisions, scandals, economic stagnation, and policy reversals. The article suggests this frequent change in leadership indicates a deeper malaise within British politics.

Following a significant byelection defeat, Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially expressed defiance regarding his leadership. However, after a weekend reflection with his inner circle at Chequers, a shift occurred. By Sunday, Business Secretary Peter Kyle publicly acknowledged challenges to Starmer's leadership, indicating a change in the Prime Minister's stance. Starmer's allies were reportedly coming to terms with his impending resignation, which would lead to the UK's seventh prime minister in a decade. This change followed a substantial victory for Andy Burnham in a byelection, which intensified pressure on Starmer. Despite earlier insistence on staying, Starmer began drafting a resignation statement, influenced by cabinet ministers and the realization of inevitable political forces.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing increasing pressure to resign amid declining popularity and a challenge from Labour rival Andy Burnham. Burnham's recent victory in a special election has positioned him to potentially lead the Labour Party. Discontent within the party stems from Starmer's struggles to deliver economic growth, repair public services, and ease the cost of living, compounded by missteps like appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the US. Labour is also losing voters to the Green Party and Reform UK. While Starmer has vowed to fight any leadership challenge, some senior Labour figures believe his authority has diminished. Expectations are growing that Starmer may announce a resignation timeline as early as Monday.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly considering stepping down and may announce a timetable for his departure as early as Monday. This comes amid growing dissatisfaction within the Labour Party, concerns over the economy, and a potential leadership challenge from rival Andy Burnham, who recently won a parliamentary seat. Over 100 Labour lawmakers have publicly urged Starmer to resign or set a departure timeline, following disappointing local election results and a decline in Starmer's popularity. Despite these pressures, a government source stated Starmer remains focused on governing and has previously vowed to stay in office.

Andy Burnham's allies are increasingly confident he can secure the Labour leadership without a contest following his significant byelection victory. Burnham and his team are actively seeking nominations from MPs and ministers, with some suggesting he could achieve close to 300 backers, potentially complicating a challenge from Wes Streeting. Labour party rules require candidates to secure nominations from 20% of the parliamentary party (81 MPs) and support from local branches and affiliated groups to force a contest. While Burnham's team aims for an uncontested transfer of power, some MPs believe his ideas should undergo scrutiny through a leadership race. Streeting's allies maintain he has the numbers to challenge Starmer and is determined to do so, though he may not trigger a contest immediately. The article suggests that Keir Starmer, despite leading Labour to a general election victory, is unpopular and faces pressure to set a timetable for his departure.

Labour peer Charlie Falconer believes Prime Minister Starmer has "at most weeks to go." Cabinet loyalists are pressuring Starmer to present an exit timetable by the weekend. A memo circulating among loyalist MPs, seen by The Guardian, outlines potential attack arguments for a leadership campaign, suggesting that rival Andy Burnham has not yet faced significant scrutiny and a contest could weaken his support. The memo details anticipated criticisms of Burnham's readiness for leadership.

Andy Burnham's recent electoral victory positions him as a potential contender for Prime Minister, prompting scrutiny of his policy agenda. If he were to lead, his government would likely pursue significant changes, including the public ownership of utilities like water and energy, starting with Thames Water. Burnham's platform also emphasizes cost of living support through measures such as a temporary rent freeze and shifting energy levies to general taxation, though this could necessitate difficult fiscal choices given existing tax pledges. Furthermore, his vision includes greater devolution of power away from Westminster to regional leaders, potentially placing public services under mayoral control. Burnham has also expressed interest in reforming the parliamentary whipping system to allow MPs more freedom and is considering electoral reform, advocating for a national commission to study potential changes to the voting system.

Andy Burnham has won a crucial by-election in Ashton-in-Makerfield, a victory widely seen as a prelude to a potential Labour leadership challenge against current leader Keir Starmer. The election, which drew significant national and international media attention, saw Burnham secure a substantial majority. Burnham, the former mayor of Manchester, has expressed his intention to challenge Starmer, who has faced criticism for missteps and declining popularity. To launch a leadership bid, Burnham would need to secure nominations from 20 percent of Labour MPs and support from local party branches and trade unions. The by-election also highlighted the Reform Party's campaign, which focused on immigration, but Makerfield voters ultimately rejected the far-right.

Andy Burnham has won a special election for a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, securing 55% of the vote. This victory positions him to potentially challenge Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour party and the position of Prime Minister. The special election was significant as the previous Labour MP resigned to allow Burnham to run. Starmer, whose popularity has declined due to economic issues and a scandal, stated he will fight to remain leader. Burnham's return to Parliament is seen by some as a turning point for the country. Under Labour rules, Burnham may have enough support to trigger a leadership contest.

A significant byelection is taking place in Makerfield, with the outcome potentially influencing the future of Keir Starmer. Andy Burnham is reportedly hoping a successful result will enable him to encourage Starmer to step aside as prime minister. Up to 3,000 Labour campaigners are anticipated to be in Makerfield for Burnham, leading to concerns among organizers about potentially overwhelming local voters. To mitigate this, party members are expected to be deployed to polling stations and public waiting areas, rather than door-to-door campaigning. Local accommodations are fully booked due to the influx of activists.

A special election in the UK's Makerfield district on Thursday could significantly impact Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership of the Labour Party. Andy Burnham, the current mayor of Greater Manchester and a leading contender for future leadership, is running for the vacant parliamentary seat. If Burnham wins, it is expected to increase pressure on Starmer, whose popularity has declined due to struggles with economic growth and public services. Starmer has faced calls for resignation following poor local election results and missteps, though he has stated he will fight any leadership challenge. Burnham, known as the "King of the North," aims to implement his "Manchesterism" approach nationally, criticizing London-centric politics. The election also presents a challenge from the Reform UK party, which has gained traction in the region.

A special election in the Makerfield district of northwest England on Thursday will determine the future of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. While Starmer is not a candidate, the outcome is significant because Andy Burnham, the current mayor of Greater Manchester and a leading contender for Labour Party leadership, is running. If Burnham wins the seat for the governing Labour Party, defeating the Reform UK candidate, he is expected to challenge Starmer for leadership of the party and the country. This vote is closely watched as it could signal a shift in the political landscape.

Andy Burnham's campaign is urging ministers not to resign imminently to prevent chaos within Keir Starmer's government, particularly following the Makerfield byelection. Burnham's team is concerned that a rapid collapse would increase national instability and wants a managed transition if Burnham wins. Some ministers are reportedly eager to resign to pressure Starmer, but Burnham's allies are trying to prevent this, advocating for Starmer to have time to set a departure timetable. While Starmer insists he will fight any challenge, his allies are reportedly devising strategies to hinder Burnham. Burnham's camp aims for a "bloodless" handover and is not planning an immediate leadership challenge after the result.

A by-election in Makerfield, UK, on Thursday is significant beyond the parliamentary seat. Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is contesting the seat, with the intention to challenge Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party if he wins. This comes amid declining Labour popularity, poor council election results, and resignations from the government, increasing pressure on Starmer. Reform UK, a far-right party, is also a strong contender in Makerfield, having performed well in recent local elections and appealing to both former Conservative and traditional Labour voters. Burnham, a popular figure as Mayor of Greater Manchester, previously served in cabinet and has built a reputation for his policies and advocacy. The contest highlights internal Labour tensions and the rise of the far-right.

Tactical voting by Green and Liberal Democrat supporters is crucial for a potential Labour victory in Makerfield, as these voters are willing to back Labour's Andy Burnham to prevent Reform UK from winning. Conversely, Reform UK's main right-wing competitor is the Restore Britain party. Polling suggests that the combined vote share of Green and Liberal Democrat supporters significantly exceeds Labour's narrow poll lead, and these voters are more inclined to lend their vote to Burnham than Restore supporters are to back Reform's candidate. Experts note the stark tactical logic for smaller parties in Makerfield, where their candidates are unlikely to win. The article also highlights a significant increase in misinformation on local Facebook groups during the campaign.