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In a landmark declaration, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has posited that his ambitious devolution strategy bolsters the argument for a written constitution in the United Kingdom. This proposal could signify a transformative shift in the governance framework that has defined the UK for centuries, aiming to rectify systemic inequalities in power distribution across the regions.
A Call for Change
During a recent address, Burnham underscored the urgent need for a constitutional overhaul, asserting that the UK’s prevailing political structure is “antiquated” and ill-equipped to ensure equitable opportunities nationwide. The Prime Minister highlighted that Britain, unlike most major democracies, lacks a formalised constitution—a foundational document that articulates the rules governing the state.
He argued that the ongoing decentralisation efforts, which are designed to empower regional leaders with greater fiscal autonomy, strengthen the rationale for a codified constitution. “It will increase the case for a constitution because Britain is changing through this, England is certainly changing through this,” Burnham remarked, suggesting that the evolution of governance necessitates an accompanying legal framework.
The Vision for Devolution
Burnham’s recent proposals signal a historic reconfiguration of political authority in the UK. By moving decision-making power from Whitehall to local authorities and mayors, the Prime Minister aims to create a system that resonates more closely with the needs of local communities. “This is the most radical departure from our over-centralised political establishment,” he stated, emphasising that the new approach through No 10 North represents a serious commitment to regional empowerment.
The potential implementation of a model resembling Germany’s postwar Grundgesetz, which mandates equitable living standards across regions, serves as a significant inspiration. Under Burnham’s devolution plan, by early 2028, regional mayors will retain a portion of the income tax generated in their areas. This allows wealthier regions, such as London and Greater Manchester, to contribute to less affluent areas like Hull and East Yorkshire, fostering a spirit of financial solidarity.
Constitutional Implications
The prospect of introducing a written constitution is viewed by some experts as a radical departure from the UK’s historical governance model. Tim Bale, a politics professor at Queen Mary University of London, noted that significant constitutional reforms typically arise in the aftermath of revolutions or major upheavals. The process of enacting such changes alongside Burnham’s devolution agenda raises critical questions about feasibility and public reception.
While a written constitution could delineate the roles and responsibilities of various governmental tiers more clearly, it may also impose constraints on the government’s ability to enact changes with a simple parliamentary majority. “One of the upsides is that it might better define the competencies of the various levels of government—local, regional, and national,” Bale added, although he cautioned against the challenges of limiting the scope of such a constitution.
The Inequality Challenge
In his 2024 publication, *Head North*, co-authored with Liverpool city region mayor Steve Rotheram, Burnham elucidated the entrenched inequalities that plague Britain. He posits that the lack of a formal constitution contributes to the concentration of power in Westminster, exacerbating disparities across the nation. “Our unwritten and murky constitutional arrangements have had the effect of hoarding power in a small number of hands,” he wrote, highlighting the urgent need for reform.
As Burnham pushes forward with his devolution plans, the conversation surrounding a written constitution gains momentum, with calls for a legal framework that not only addresses current disparities but also prepares the UK for a more equitable future.
Why it Matters
The potential introduction of a written constitution in the UK could redefine the relationship between the state and its citizens, fostering a more transparent and equitable governance structure. As Burnham’s devolution agenda seeks to dismantle centuries of centralised power, the call for a codified constitution reflects a broader desire for accountability and fairness in public policy. This pivotal moment in British politics could herald a new era of governance, one that prioritises regional autonomy and addresses the stark inequalities that have long characterised the nation.
