One of Andy Burnham's key allies has indicated that the Greater Manchester mayor has been planning for a potential leadership role in government for at least a year. This comes as the future of the welfare budget remains a significant challenge, with a recent review deeming Personal Independence Payments (Pip) in England and Wales "not fit for purpose."
Louise Haigh, a former transport secretary, stated that Burnham's time away from Westminster does not signify a lack of preparedness for government. She also commented on the complexities of the welfare bill, which she described as "ballooning massively." Haigh previously supported reforms aimed at cutting the welfare budget by £5 billion annually, a proposal that faced opposition and a backbench revolt, including from herself. She argued that proposed cuts would not offer a sustainable solution and could increase costs elsewhere in the system.
Haigh suggested that Burnham has a clear plan for devolving power away from Westminster to regional authorities, potentially shifting decision-making authority from the Treasury. However, she also noted that breaking up the Treasury within a short timeframe would be a significant distraction. Haigh's own political career has seen scrutiny; she resigned from her position in November 2024 after disclosing a decade-old fraud offense. She had admitted to falsely reporting a work phone as stolen, receiving a conditional discharge before becoming a Member of Parliament.
Reflecting on the current government's messaging, Haigh suggested that the initial tone upon taking office may have been overly pessimistic. She recalled a mandate for change and initial hope among the public, which she felt was immediately countered by the government stating such change was not possible. According to Haigh, this sentiment has been difficult to overcome despite subsequent attempts at recalibration.