Key Policies On Devolution, Housing, Tax
By Samuel Olusegun Precious
Labour figure and former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is gaining momentum in the race to become Britain’s next prime minister, with attention now turning to his policy agenda.
Burnham has outlined major plans across devolution, public services, housing, and the economy as he positions himself as a candidate for change.
Key Policies:
1. Devolution
Burnham is promising the biggest “rebalancing of power” away from Whitehall in UK history. He says regional authorities and mayors will get more powers, and plans to set up a No 10 “North” office in Manchester to bring the government closer to the regions.
2. Water and Energy
He is pushing for “greater public control” of water and energy across the UK. Burnham has previously backed public ownership of Thames Water and argues the model should be expanded nationwide.
3. Housing
The former mayor has pledged the largest council house building programme “since the post-War period” to tackle the UK’s housing shortage.
4. Immigration
Burnham says net migration “needs to fall further”, but has not yet set a specific target figure.5. Welfare and Employment
He is calling for a “fair and lasting” reduction to the UK’s welfare bill. However, detailed funding plans have not been published yet.
6. Tax and Spend
Burnham says he will stick to Labour’s pledge not to raise Income Tax, VAT, or National Insurance. He adds there is “some room” within the manifesto for other tax changes, and promises to adhere to Labour’s fiscal rules.
Political analysts say Burnham’s focus on regional power and public ownership is resonating with voters outside London, but questions remain over how he would fund some of his big spending plans.
This is a developing story. ExceedFM News will bring you updates from Westminster as the leadership race unfolds.
