Andy Burnham’s Number 10 North changes the postcode, but not the politics
Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has started moving parts of the UK government from London to Manchester, naming the initiative Number 10 North. This new office will focus on local growth and devolution, but so far it mainly involves shifting staff without transferring tax or spending powers.Key Facts
- Andy Burnham became prime minister and began his work by visiting Glasgow, meeting leaders from Scotland and Wales.
- Number 10 North is the name given to a new government office being set up in Manchester, at Heron House and later moving to a planned Digital Campus in 2032.
- Government departments related to local growth and devolution are moving from London to Manchester under this initiative.
- Burnham expects to work from Manchester at least one day a week and has appointed a deputy chief of staff based there.
- The project aims to spread economic growth across the UK, not just focus on London.
- Critics say Number 10 North currently lacks real financial power because tax and spending control have not been handed over.
- Some experts view the move as ambitious but emphasize the need for stronger political leadership and fiscal powers to make it effective.
- Burnham has avoided discussions about a second Scottish independence referendum during his early meetings.
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