In a landmark move, regional mayors are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the UK’s economic landscape, as Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister and former mayor of Greater Manchester, unveils plans for No 10 North. This initiative marks what Burnham describes as the most significant shift in power distribution seen in the UK, reviving the national economic council (NEC) first established during the 2008 financial crisis to galvanise economic growth.
A New Era of Devolution
Burnham, who will chair the inaugural NEC meeting this Friday, emphasised that the age of resisting devolution is over. “No one in government loses when power is shared,” he stated in a recent article for the Guardian. His comments underline a commitment to decentralising decision-making, moving away from the traditional London-centric approach that has dominated UK politics for decades.
Under the new framework, Burnham is determined to ensure that economic decisions reflect local needs, asserting, “Even though Whitehall departments have set up outposts, decision-making power has remained in London.” No 10 North aims to rectify this imbalance by placing authority in the hands of those best positioned to enact change.
The Machinery of Change
Operating from Heron House in central Manchester, which will serve as the interim headquarters, Burnham’s No 10 North is designed to unify local economic development initiatives under a single strategy. This consolidation is expected to streamline efforts in areas such as housing, transport, and regeneration, with Burnham stating that it will “remove barriers to regeneration” and foster growth across the UK.
As he embarks on this ambitious agenda, Burnham is also establishing the Office for the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, headed by his close ally Louise Haigh. This new department will oversee both the Manchester and London operations, aiming to ensure cohesive governance that prioritises regional collaboration.
A Call for Authenticity
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding these changes, critics are wary of potential tokenism in the government’s approach. Burnham’s challenge will be to demonstrate that this new structure isn’t merely symbolic. As the first British leader to operate regularly from Manchester, he faces the scrutiny of ensuring that local leaders are genuinely involved in the decision-making process.
With several members of his cabinet, including Angela Rayner and Lucy Powell, expected to work from No 10 North, the government is signalling its commitment to integrating regional perspectives into national policy discussions.
A Historical Perspective
The revival of the NEC echoes the approach taken by Gordon Brown during the last financial crisis, where it served as a vital mechanism for coordinating responses to economic challenges. Burnham’s intention to adapt this model for contemporary issues indicates a recognition of the urgent need for collective action in today’s economic climate.
In his vision, Burnham sees No 10 North as a catalyst for “driving reindustrialisation and growth across every postcode of the UK.” This ambitious aim seeks to elevate living standards across the regions, highlighting the commitment to equality in economic opportunities.
Why it Matters
The establishment of No 10 North and the revitalisation of the NEC represent a transformative moment for UK governance. By empowering regional mayors and decentralising decision-making, Burnham aims to create a more inclusive and responsive economic framework. The success of this initiative could redefine the relationship between central and local government, fostering a more balanced and equitable approach to economic development across the nation. This shift not only promises to address longstanding regional disparities but could also set a new precedent for how governance operates in the UK, making it a pivotal moment in British political history.
