Burnham unveils devolution push and calls for public control

What's happened

New prime minister Andy Burnham has set out a plan for deeper devolution, tackling the centralisation of power and sketching reforms to water, energy and housing. He stresses growth through regional autonomy while warning against a two-tier England and outlining a path to devolution deals with Cornwall and beyond.

What's behind the headline?

Analysis

• Burnham is positioning devolution as the main lever for economic growth, drawing on his Manchester tenure to argue that regional power boosts outcomes.
• The plan appears to balance ambition with political risk, proposing devolution deals with and without elected mayors to avoid a two-tier England, while testing public ownership ideas in utilities.
• Watch for potential tensions with Conservative critics who warn against higher local control and spending. This move could reshape the funding landscape for local services and infrastructure.
• The COP31 attendance signals continuity on climate diplomacy, though domestic spending commitments remain to be clarified.
• Overall, the thrust is a coordinated push to shift power outward from Westminster, with measurable consequences for local governance, public services and investment incentives.

How we got here

The articles show Burnham outlining a broad devolution agenda after taking office in July, including plans for devolution deals without mandatory mayors in some areas, and a push for public control of water and energy. He also signals defence spending commitments and climate engagement, framing devolution as central to growth.

Our analysis

Politico, BBC Business (coverage notes the devolution logic and Cornwall deal), BBC Business (outlining Defence and climate plans). Direct quotes include Burnham: "From the 1980s, this country took a series of wrong turns" and commitment to devolution "with or without" an elected mayor.

Go deeper

• Will Burnham's devolution plan survive intra-party scrutiny?
• Which regions will secure deals first, and under what governance models?
• How quickly will public control of water and energy be implemented?

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