Andy Burnham confirmed that he will set up a No 10 North in Manchester. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
"The change will be the biggest change in our lifetimes to the way the country is run, and it is consistent with the 2024 manifesto," Burnham said.
"We will create a more streamlined state with a clearer purpose to power up all parts of the country and put a laser-like focus on growth and regeneration, good growth."
"The change will be driven through the prime minister's office in an extended operation based here in Manchester."
"But here's the important thing; it will only be based here. The job of No 10 North will be to make power flow into the Midlands, into the South West, into the East of England and yes, into London."
Burnham's speech is a major political initiative aimed at transforming the UK's political landscape. The move is seen as part of the government's broader strategy to reduce regional inequality and devolve power away from London.
As promised in the 2024 manifesto, the new office aims to stimulate economic growth by giving regions more autonomy and bringing decision-making closer to local level. Critics have welcomed the step but question its actual implementation and effectiveness.
Burnham's initiative is part of the Labour Party's wider plans for regional development. The party has promised to create a "balanced" economy by decentralising power and giving regions more resources.
The idea of "No 10 North" was first proposed ahead of the 2024 general election. Burnham has been a key figure in pushing this initiative, and his speech today is the official confirmation of this plan.
The new office will be based in Manchester, but its operations will extend across the country. According to Burnham, No 10 North will channel power into the Midlands, the South West, the East of England, and London. All these regions are expected to benefit from devolution.
Burnham's speech has been assessed differently by political observers. Some experts consider this step a significant change in the UK's governance system, while others view it as merely a symbolic gesture.
Nevertheless, Burnham himself emphasised the importance of this change. He said it would be "the biggest change in our lifetimes" and that it is consistent with the 2024 manifesto.
Following Burnham's speech, other Labour Party leaders expressed support for the initiative. The party's official spokesperson for regional development said the step is important and "will benefit all parts of the country."
Opposition parties criticised the initiative. A Conservative Party spokesperson said it is "just a PR stunt" and "will not deliver real results."
However, Burnham is determined to implement his plan. He said he will take the necessary steps to start the new office in Manchester.
This initiative is a significant event in UK political life. Time will tell how it will be implemented and what results it will bring.