Burnham to propose devolution plan in first major speech since No 10 bid
8 reported
Andy Burnham is scheduled to deliver a devolution speech in Manchester on June 29, 2026, his first major policy address since launching his bid to become prime minister. According to The Guardian, Burnham is set to become PM in three weeks. The speech is expected to pledge “good growth in every postcode” by transferring power from Whitehall to local communities. Burnham co-authored a book in early 2024 with Steve Rotheram, the Liverpool city region mayor, titled “Head North,” which argues that the north of England has lost out because power is hoarded in the south. The book includes a 10-point plan for rebalancing power through devolution. Burnham will not take questions from reporters after the speech, a decision that has drawn criticism from Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice, who described it as “power without accountability.”
What’s reported
Andy Burnham is set to become prime minister in three weeks, as of June 29, 2026.
He will give a devolution speech in Manchester at 11:30am on June 29.
The speech is his first major policy address since launching his No 10 bid.
He will pledge “good growth in every postcode” by transferring power out of Whitehall to local communities.
Burnham co-authored the book “Head North” with Steve Rotheram in early 2024, which argues for rebalancing power away from London.
The book includes a 10-point plan for devolution.
Burnham will not take questions from reporters after the speech, according to The Guardian.
Richard Tice, Reform UK deputy leader, criticized the decision as “power without accountability.”
Key figures
Andy Burnham, presumptive next prime minister
Steve Rotheram, Liverpool city region mayor
Richard Tice, Reform UK deputy leader
Keir Starmer, current prime minister
Pat McFadden, work and pensions secretary
Mark Rutte, Nato secretary general
Alastair Campbell, former communications chief for Tony Blair
Sources: The Guardian
