Andy Burnham has declared that the Midlands and the North are treated as 'second-class citizens' by Westminster, as he outlined his vision for a 'new path for Britain' following his return to national politics. The Mayor of Greater Manchester is seeking to oust Sir Keir Starmer and become Prime Minister, unveiling plans for reindustrialisation, stronger public control of essentials like energy and water, and a post-war level of council house building.
Fight for Labour's Soul
In his first in-depth interview since announcing his candidacy for Makerfield, Burnham described the contest as a battle for the 'soul of the Labour party and country'. He refused to blame voters who left the party in local elections, saying, 'I don't want, Reform this, Greens that. We want to listen to what people are saying.' He called for a 'circuit breaker' in politics, advocating a collaborative, place-first approach over party-first politics.
Criticism of Reform and Thatcherism
Burnham tore into Nigel Farage, comparing Reform UK's policies to Margaret Thatcher's reign. 'When Britain went on that wrong path in the 1980s, the leadership of Reform were the arch Thatcherites,' he said. He urged voters to test Reform's true character, contrasting it with his vision for a Labour party 'solidly on the side of working-class people'.
Second-Class Citizens
Reflecting on his career, Burnham highlighted his fight for miners' compensation, investment in Wigan, and justice for Hillsborough families. He criticised Boris Johnson's treatment of Greater Manchester during COVID, stating, 'They treat the Midlands and the North of England as second-class citizens.' He vowed to continue this fight at the highest level, noting that many parts of the UK outside London and the South East receive unfair treatment.
Economic and Housing Plans
Burnham called for education reform to elevate technical education to the level of academic routes, and stronger public control of essentials. He warned that Britain would face instability until the housing crisis is resolved, advocating for large-scale council house building. He also repeated his support for proportional representation in Westminster elections, arguing it fosters a 'new politics and a different way of thinking'.
Campaign Slogan 'For Us'
Burnham's campaign slogan 'For Us' reflects his commitment to local people. 'I'm for us, which means I'm not for a political and economic system that is for the wealthiest,' he said. He pledged to donate a portion of his MP salary if elected, continuing a practice he has maintained for nine years as Mayor. 'I would carry that commitment into this if the public is good enough to give me the chance,' he added.
