Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, outlined a series of policy priorities aimed at addressing economic and social challenges in the North of England, emphasizing local empowerment and public sector involvement. Known for his nickname “King of the North,” Burnham criticized the privatisation policies of the 1980s and 1990s, arguing that these measures exacerbated the detrimental effects of deindustrialisation on the region.

Among his proposals is the introduction of price controls to make essential living costs more affordable. He indicated that rents, utility bills, and public transport fares could be subject to direct regulation by the state to ease financial pressures on households.

Burnham also highlighted the need for greater devolution, seeking to shift power away from central government in Whitehall toward local authorities. His plan involves redeploying civil servants to work directly within northern councils, aiming to enhance responsiveness and governance at a regional level.

On Brexit, Burnham has recently shifted his stance. Although he had previously expressed support for the UK rejoining the European Union, he reversed this position while campaigning for a by-election in Makerfield, a constituency that voted to leave the EU.

Addressing economic development, Burnham pledged a renewed focus on reindustrialisation. This strategy would prioritize the revival of manufacturing sectors alongside a stronger emphasis on vocational education and training, moving away from an exclusive focus on university degrees to better align skills with regional employment needs.

These proposals form part of Burnham’s broader vision for revitalizing the North, blending calls for public sector involvement with expanded local authority influence and tailored economic policies.