Andy Burnham, a leading contender to become the next Prime Minister, is scheduled to deliver a significant policy speech outlining his vision for governance, with a central focus on enhanced devolution across the United Kingdom. The speech, his first major address since announcing his bid for Number 10, is expected to introduce plans for a "No 10 North," a body intended to drive growth across all UK nations and regions.
Burnham plans to place devolution at the core of his government program, pledging a "10-year mission" aimed at raising living standards and addressing youth employment. He aims to "lift Britain back up to where it should be," according to remarks previewing the speech. The address is also expected to tackle the issue of low public trust in politics, advocating for decision-making to be decentralized to regions and local communities, promising "good growth in every postcode."
He has signaled an intention to adhere to the fiscal rules established by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. These rules stipulate that day-to-day government expenses will be covered by tax revenue, not borrowing, and that national debt will decrease as a share of income by 2029-30. However, the current economic climate, characterized by budget pressures and high borrowing costs, presents limited financial flexibility for any prospective prime minister.
Concerns have been raised by some Labour MPs on the left of the party, who have urged Burnham to relax these fiscal constraints to allow for increased spending. In contrast, Conservative Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake criticized Burnham's plans, suggesting that his focus on devolution represents a "politics of distraction" and an avoidance of critical issues like welfare reform, tax cuts, and defense spending. A spokesman for Reform UK echoed this sentiment, characterizing the speech's preview as "a lot of words for no actual concrete changes."
Burnham is also facing pressure to commit to increased defense spending. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, former Chief of the Defence Staff, has called for Burnham to pledge an increase in defense investment to 3.5% of GDP by 2035 if he assumes the role of Prime Minister. Radakin emphasized the responsibility of a prime minister to "keep our country safe" and invest in national security.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey cautioned Burnham about the limited time available to enact change, stating that the country is "impatient for change" and warning against repeating past disappointments where promises of change failed to materialize. He urged Burnham not to make the same mistake.
Should no other Labour MP contend for the leadership, Burnham is anticipated to become Prime Minister on July 20. He faces calls to clarify his cabinet appointments and confirm whether his policies will diverge from Labour's 2024 manifesto.