Andy Burnham: UK Economy Fails Citizens, National Politics Needs Fundamental Change
Andy Burnham, the current Mayor of Greater Manchester and Labour candidate for the Makerfield by-election next month, contends that national politics has reached a "dangerous place" where "people in this country cannot afford a good life." Burnham, a former Cabinet minister under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, stated that Britain has been "on the wrong path for 40 years."
Addressing his potential return to Westminster, Burnham indicated that UK politics is at a critical juncture requiring fundamental change to prevent a complete loss of public faith. He vacated Westminster in 2017 but announced his candidacy following the resignation of the incumbent Makerfield MP, Josh Simons.
While expressing pride in his mayoral record, Burnham conceded there were limits to what he could achieve regionally. He argued that national political and economic changes are necessary to improve living standards for constituents in Makerfield and across Greater Manchester.
Brexit and Domestic Priorities
Regarding the European Union, an issue recently highlighted by potential Labour leadership rival Wes Streeting, Burnham clarified his position. He acknowledged that "Brexit has not improved things," leading to a smaller economy and weaker immigration control. However, he maintained that the UK should not focus on re-joining the bloc, stating, "we had a vote, we shouldn't keep re-running the arguments linked to that vote." Instead, he advocated for a "relentless" focus on domestic issues over the next five to 10 years to ensure the country functions effectively and addresses basic needs.
HS2 and Local Governance
Burnham also criticised the repeated curtailments of the HS2 rail project, particularly its northern extensions, describing his frustration as "massive." He attributed these failures to Whitehall's centralised approach, which dictates decisions from afar. He proposed a more localised, "ground-up" method for infrastructure development, suggesting an underground station at Manchester Piccadilly could generate economic value to fund further construction.
Regarding anti-social behaviour in areas like Ashton-in-Makerfield, Burnham confirmed discussions with police and proposed a youth zone for the area, similar to those elsewhere in Greater Manchester, as an immediate campaign pledge if elected.
Burnham declined to confirm if he would resign as mayor should he lose the Makerfield by-election. Rules stipulate that a mayor cannot concurrently serve as an MP, though campaigning while in office is permitted.
