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Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister, has underscored that his government’s devolution strategy bolsters the argument for a written constitution in the UK, a significant shift that could redefine the nation’s governance. His comments come as part of a broader push to decentralise power and ensure equitable opportunities across regions, addressing long-standing disparities.
A Call for Change
Burnham has long championed the need for reform in what he describes as an “antiquated” political framework. The UK stands out among major democracies as one of the few without a formal written constitution, a fundamental document that establishes the principles of governance. Speaking over the weekend, Burnham noted that the ongoing decentralisation efforts not only promote local autonomy but also strengthen the case for codifying the rules by which the UK is governed.
“It will increase the case for a constitution because Britain is changing through this, England is certainly changing through this,” he stated, highlighting the transformative potential of his government’s plans. He elaborated on the necessity of creating a devolution model that accommodates the diverse needs of Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the English regions.
Radical Steps Towards Decentralisation
The Prime Minister revealed that the latest devolution measures introduced represent a profound shift from the UK’s historically centralised political structure. This initiative, termed “No 10 North,” aims to transfer decision-making authority from Westminster to regional mayors and local governments. Burnham described this as a “rewiring” of the political landscape, marking a decisive step towards greater local empowerment.
Tim Bale, a political scholar from Queen Mary University, remarked that establishing a written constitution would represent a substantial departure for the UK. Typically, such changes are associated with revolutionary moments or significant upheavals in governance. The challenge lies in navigating this constitutional evolution while simultaneously advancing Burnham’s agenda, which encompasses crucial areas like social care and public ownership of utilities.
The Influence of Germany’s Model
Burnham has drawn inspiration from Germany’s post-war basic law, which mandates equitable living standards across its federal states, mandating wealthier regions to support less affluent ones. Under the new devolution framework, regional mayors in England will have the authority to retain a portion of income tax generated locally by 2028. Future proposals are expected to encourage economic hubs like London and Greater Manchester to share resources with less prosperous areas, such as Hull and East Yorkshire.
Dr Hannah White, head of the Institute for Government, noted that the adoption of a written constitution would necessitate a comprehensive overhaul of the UK’s structural rules, far exceeding the current devolution framework. This would involve delineating the powers and responsibilities of various government tiers, a process that could significantly alter the balance of power.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s advocacy for a written constitution reflects a growing recognition of the need for structural reform in the UK’s governance. By addressing the entrenched inequalities that have persisted due to a lack of clear constitutional guidelines, these proposals aim to redistribute power more equitably across the nation. As the UK grapples with its political identity in a changing world, the push for a codified constitution represents not just an administrative shift, but a fundamental reimagining of how governance can be more inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of its citizens.
