Plans for a significant transfer of power from central government to local leaders, championed by Andy Burnham, serve as a "clear warning" to Whitehall, according to Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones.
Jones expressed support for the devolution proposals outlined by Burnham, who is widely expected to become the next leader of the Labour Party. Speaking at an event in London, Jones stated that "Westminster must trust local leaders to make the right decisions." He also suggested that central government departments might "shrink" if Burnham were to assume the role of prime minister.
Burnham launched his bid for Labour leadership with a speech detailing his ambition to redistribute power across the UK, aiming to "drive good growth in every postcode." His central pledge focuses on devolving authority away from senior civil servants in Whitehall, which he contends has hindered progress in Greater Manchester during his tenure as mayor.
"It is time for Whitehall to accept that growth cannot be ordered from the top down - it can only be nurtured from the bottom up," Burnham said in his speech.
Addressing the Remaking the State conference, Jones echoed these sentiments, noting that Burnham had "rightly set out" how the "overcentralisation of power and bureaucracy in Westminster can stifle growth, decision-making and opportunity." Jones also commented on the political climate, suggesting, "I just say to Whitehall with the direction the political winds are blowing, I think this is a clear warning." He emphasized that "Devolution must mean devolution, not duplication."
Jones also indicated a potential restructuring of government, mentioning that while he supports Burnham's concept of a "No 10 North" – a potential prime ministerial base outside of London – he also urged the future Labour leader to "strengthen the centre" by establishing a prime minister's department in London.