On his inaugural day operating from the newly established No 10 North office in Manchester, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the initiative’s significance in decentralizing power from London. Burnham asserted that this move is a pivotal development towards achieving a more balanced distribution of power across the country. Addressing criticisms concerning the project’s expenses, he justified the office’s creation as a strategic step to enable major national decisions to be made beyond the capital, thereby fostering a more equitable nation.
During a National Economic Council meeting, Burnham described the launch of No 10 North as “the best day of my life,” humorously admitting that his wife might have a differing opinion. He assured regional mayors that the new office would collaborate closely with local leadership to boost economic growth nationwide. This initiative, Burnham explained, is designed to integrate the efforts of central government and regional authorities, forming “one team” and streamlining the process for local leaders who previously had to engage with multiple government departments.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner acknowledged the challenges in reaching the government’s target of constructing 1.5 million homes during this parliamentary term. Despite the obstacles, she affirmed that the goal remains steadfast. Rayner also dismissed the idea of implementing rent controls, pointing out that recent reforms in renters’ rights are already impacting the housing market effectively.
In other political developments, the Scottish National Party (SNP) criticized the government’s recent cost-of-living support measures, which include reduced bus fares, lower VAT on electricity bills, and business rate relief for pubs and clubs, arguing that these measures are insufficient for household support. Additionally, ministers are preparing for an upcoming review of the government’s early prisoner release scheme, which is anticipated to occur in the coming weeks.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called on Prime Minister Burnham to adopt a more assertive position against US President Donald Trump after the United States imposed new tariffs on imports from over 80 countries. Davey labeled Trump as “a bully and an unreliable ally.” The establishment of No 10 North is intended to be a symbol of the government’s broader agenda to decentralize decision-making and enhance economic development across the UK’s regions.