In a bold move set to reshape the landscape of UK governance, Andy Burnham, the newly appointed Prime Minister and former mayor of Greater Manchester, has unveiled plans for No 10 North. This initiative aims to empower regional mayors and decentralise economic decision-making, marking what Burnham describes as “the biggest rebalancing of power our country has seen.”
A New Era of Governance
Burnham’s vision comes with the revival of the National Economic Council (NEC), a body originally established by Gordon Brown during the 2008 financial crisis. The council’s purpose, as articulated by Burnham, is to mobilise urgent and collective action to drive economic growth. In an article for the Guardian, he stated, “When I entered Downing Street, I told staff that the era of fighting devolution is over. No one in government loses when power is shared.”
The inaugural meeting of the NEC is scheduled for Friday, where Burnham will gather senior ministers and regional leaders to ensure that devolution is not merely a concept but a driving force behind economic strategy.
The Role of Regional Mayors
With regional mayors now invited to have a seat at the decision-making table, Burnham’s approach aims to solidify local leadership in economic discussions. He emphasised that despite Whitehall’s presence in the regions, real power has remained firmly in London. “This is what No 10 North is seeking to correct,” he asserted, adding that the initiative could lead to a much-needed transformation in governance.
Operating from Heron House in Manchester, soon to serve as the interim headquarters for No 10 North, Burnham plans to regularly conduct government business from the city. This shift signifies a departure from traditional Westminster-centric governance, with the aim of fostering closer collaboration between local and national authorities.
Restructuring the Prime Minister’s Office
In tandem with the launch of No 10 North, Burnham has formed a powerful new department that will amalgamate various government functions, including elements of the Cabinet Office and Treasury. This new Office for the Prime Minister and the Cabinet will be led by his ally, Louise Haigh, who will oversee operations in both Manchester and London.
Burnham’s approach seeks to place economic decisions firmly in the hands of those who understand local needs best. Haigh, along with other ministers, will frequently work from the new headquarters, further embedding the principle of devolution into the heart of government operations.
Future Prospects and Challenges
As the government embarks on this ambitious plan, Burnham faces the challenge of proving that No 10 North is not merely a symbolic gesture. The relocation of senior civil servants and the establishment of a unified economic strategy are crucial steps towards achieving genuine regional empowerment.
Dave Penman, General Secretary of the FDA union, has voiced support for the restructuring but cautioned that the move to Manchester represents a significant shift for many staff members.
The NEC meetings will adapt to focus on the current issues at hand, drawing in business leaders and trade unions to foster a collaborative atmosphere. This approach mirrors the strategy employed during Brown’s premiership, where rapid responses were crucial to maintaining economic stability.
Why it Matters
Andy Burnham’s launch of No 10 North could redefine the dynamics of power and governance in the UK. By prioritising regional engagement and collaboration, the initiative aims to address long-standing disparities in economic prosperity across the nation. If successful, Burnham’s vision could pave the way for a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities, fundamentally altering the relationship between Westminster and the regions. The outcome of this experiment in decentralisation will be closely watched, with implications that could resonate far beyond the borders of Greater Manchester.
