Andy Burnham outlines plan for No 10 North to oversee devolution of power and resources

The office would have three tasks: increasing public ownership of water, energy and housing utilities; supporting reindustrialisation in multiple regions; and regenerating towns that have received less investment. Burnham stated that the Westminster system is broken and that continuing existing approaches would not raise living standards or restore public confidence in politics.

Policy measures He said the programme would include the largest council housebuilding effort since the postwar period and would direct government departments to favour British companies in public contracts even when costs are higher. Burnham added that an early cost-of-living support package would be considered once in office, noting constituent feedback about rising expenses.

He confirmed he would maintain fiscal rules and would not name cabinet positions until closer to taking power. Burnham said he intends to form a broad group within the Labour party and seek common ground with other parties to support a ten-year plan.

He also proposed expanding technical education routes and reducing emphasis on university pathways to prepare workers for reindustrialised sectors.