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In a significant development for British governance, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has asserted that his administration’s devolution initiatives bolster the argument for a written constitution in the UK. This proposed constitutional reform promises to reshape the long-standing political framework of the nation, which has remained unwritten and largely unchanged for centuries.
A Call for Change
During a recent address, Burnham articulated his belief that the current political system is outdated and in dire need of transformation to ensure equitable opportunities across the country. He highlighted that the UK remains one of the few major democracies without a formal constitution, a document that establishes the fundamental principles of governance. Burnham contended that the decentralisation of powers to regional leaders enhances the case for a codified structure, stating, “It will increase the case for a constitution because Britain is changing through this; England is certainly changing through this.”
The Prime Minister emphasised the necessity of developing a constitutional framework that accommodates the distinct needs of Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the English regions. He articulated a vision for a “new constitutional settlement” that aligns with his commitment to achieving “good growth in every postcode.”
Radical Devolution Measures
Burnham’s recent announcements mark what he describes as a “radical departure” from the UK’s historically centralised governance model. His plans for devolution are designed to empower local authorities and mayors, facilitating a transfer of decision-making authority away from Whitehall. This initiative, branded as No 10 North, represents a fundamental shift in how power is exercised across the nation.
Political analyst Tim Bale from Queen Mary University of London remarked that the introduction of a written constitution would signal a profound transformation for the UK, typically associated with major political upheaval. He noted that while establishing such a constitution could clarify the roles of various government levels, it could also impose limitations on parliamentary power, preventing changes to fundamental rules by simple majority.
Historical Context and Inspiration
In his 2024 publication, *Head North*, co-authored with Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram, Burnham examined the roots of deep-seated inequality in the UK, attributing it partly to an unadapted political system reminiscent of a “feudal state.” He argued that the lack of a clear constitutional framework has concentrated power within a small elite, thereby exacerbating social disparities.
Burnham has drawn inspiration from Germany’s postwar basic law, or Grundgesetz, which mandates equal living standards across its regions, promoting wealth redistribution from affluent areas to those less prosperous. Under Burnham’s proposed devolution strategy, regional mayors in England will retain a portion of local income tax revenues by 2028, with economically robust regions like London and Greater Manchester expected to share resources with less affluent areas, such as Hull and East Yorkshire.
The Path Forward
As discussions surrounding a written constitution progress, Dr. Hannah White, Chief Executive of the Institute for Government, highlighted that such a change would necessitate comprehensive reforms beyond mere devolution. A fully codified constitution would encompass all structural rules governing the UK, representing a monumental shift in the nation’s political landscape.
Why it Matters
The push for a written constitution amid extensive devolution efforts could redefine the relationship between central and local governments in the UK. This constitutional overhaul could not only enhance democratic accountability but also provide a framework for addressing longstanding inequalities. As the nation grapples with its historical political architecture, Burnham’s vision for a more equitable governance model could resonate widely, setting a precedent for meaningful change in the distribution of power and resources across the UK.
