Good vibes from PM-in-waiting Andy Burnham today – but vibes won’t be enough. I hope he knows that
His big speech showed promise, but the need is urgent. Keir Starmer failed to fix a broken economic model; Burnham must not make the same mistake
TL;DR
- Andy Burnham's speech in Manchester signaled a potential shift in direction, criticizing the status quo and promising a "circuit breaker" and rebalancing of power.
- Key promises included a large council housebuilding program and devolving budgets to mayors, drawing parallels to post-war initiatives.
- The article questions the financial feasibility of these promises, particularly concerning funding for public services and housing within current fiscal constraints.
- Concerns are raised about the lack of clarity on tax policies and the potential for empty promises if significant investment cannot be secured.
- Burnham's proposals for greater public control over utilities are noted, but the distinction between this and public ownership is highlighted as needing clarification.