Andy Burnham, often referred to as the 'Municipal Messiah of Manchester,' is reportedly being positioned by some within his party for a potential leadership role, with some speculating a timeline as early as July 17. This comes despite a perceived lack of scrutiny regarding his political character and a record of achievement that some critics find limited. He has previously sought the Labour leadership in 2010 and 2015, with his 2015 bid ending in a significant loss to Jeremy Corbyn.
Burnham left Parliament in 2017 to become the Greater Manchester mayor, a role from which he has cultivated a public image. His political journey has been characterized by what critics describe as opaque policies and frequent shifts on various issues, leading to accusations of U-turns on topics ranging from Brexit to migrant benefits, fiscal rules, Black Lives Matter, trans issues, and pensions for WASPI women.
Stance on Key Issues
Brexit
Burnham has expressed a long-term desire for the UK to rejoin the European Union, emphasizing the benefits he believes the EU brought to the country. However, during the Makerfield by-election, where a majority of voters supported Brexit, he adopted a more cautious stance, suggesting that continued debate over Brexit hinders progress. His current approach appears aligned with the party's strategy of fostering closer economic ties with the EU without advocating for a second referendum.
Welfare and Defense Spending
His position on welfare reform has been described as indecisive, balancing concerns about the sustainability of the current system with support for vulnerable individuals. Burnham has indicated a willingness to reduce the welfare bill to increase funding for the armed forces, a proposal that may face opposition from within his party.
Taxation
Burnham's critics suggest his policy proposals, which include pledges for increased spending on social care and council housing, would necessitate higher taxes. He has expressed skepticism about the government's reliance on bond markets for borrowing, though he has since stated adherence to fiscal rules. Potential tax changes he is reported to consider include a wealth tax, a land value tax replacing council tax and stamp duty, increased capital gains tax, and a return of the 50 pence top income tax rate. He has also considered a national care levy, potentially replacing inheritance tax, to fund social care.
Immigration
Burnham's approach to immigration has been characterized by shifts. While he previously supported benefits access for migrants working or studying in the UK, he now opposes it. He has also moved from criticizing the Home Secretary's approach to migrant decisions to advocating for increased use of detention and swifter returns for those without a basis for a claim.
Social Issues and Foreign Policy
His views on trans issues have evolved; he has shifted from supporting trans rights and questioning the exclusivity of single-sex spaces for biological women to expressing support for a recent Supreme Court ruling prioritizing women's spaces. On the conflict between Gaza and Israel, Burnham has a record of campaigning against anti-Semitism and opposes sanctions against Israel. He has refused to label Israel's military actions in Gaza as 'genocide,' yet he was among the first British politicians to call for a ceasefire.
Defense and Pensions
While reportedly frustrated with current defense policy discussions, Burnham has yet to outline specific cuts or funding mechanisms for a significant uplift in defense spending. Regarding the state pension triple lock, which guarantees annual increases based on inflation, average earnings, or 2.5%, his economic advisors have deemed it unsustainable. Despite this, Burnham has publicly pledged to support the triple lock.
Devolution and Utilities
A key commitment for Burnham is reshaping the balance of power in Britain, with proposals for regional assemblies and increased local government responsibility. More radical ideas include devolving income tax to regional bodies, which could involve allowing regions to retain more revenue or set their own tax rates. He also supports public ownership or oversight of key utilities like water and electricity, drawing on his experience with the Manchester bus network.