Andy Burnham Should Lead on Brexit Like Pericles 2026

Andy Burnham should lead on Brexit like Pericles led Athens, argues a recent letter to The Guardian. The letter responds to an editorial about the changing Brexit debate, noting that Burnham appears to be following voters rather than guiding them. This, the writer suggests, is a problem—and history offers a solution.

Thucydides described Pericles as a leader who led the people rather than being led by them. That constant, thoughtful guidance, the letter argues, helped make Athens the dominant political and economic power of its time, respected by friends and enemies alike. Burnham, the writer says, needs to take a similar approach.

Why Following Voters on Brexit Is a Problem

The letter’s author contends that simply following public opinion on Brexit is insufficient. Leadership requires offering a clear direction, especially on complex issues like the UK’s relationship with the EU. Burnham, as a prominent political figure, has a responsibility to show his cards.

According to the letter, Burnham should specify what type of relationship he wants to pursue with European partners. This clarity would allow for a more informed debate and better policy outcomes.

Pericles as a Model for Modern Leadership

The letter invokes Pericles, the Athenian statesman, as an example of effective leadership. Thucydides noted that Pericles led the people, rather than being led by them. This, the writer argues, was key to Athens’ rise.

In modern terms, leading on Brexit means not just reflecting polls but articulating a vision and using evidence to support it. Burnham could adopt this approach by commissioning independent analysis.

The OBR’s Role in Analyzing Brexit Options

The letter proposes that Burnham ask the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) to produce an independent and authoritative analysis. This analysis would weigh the benefits and drawbacks of different types of closer relationships with the EU.

The OBR, with its expertise, could model the impact of UK economic policy uncertainty, which spiked during the Brexit referendum and remained elevated afterward. It could also account for structural changes in the UK economy.

Key Takeaways from the Letter

• Andy Burnham should lead rather than follow voters on Brexit.
• Pericles’ leadership style offers a historical model for guiding the public.
• An OBR analysis could clarify the pros and cons of closer EU ties.
• Economic policy uncertainty and structural change must be considered.
• Burnham should publicly state his preferred relationship with the EU.

What the OBR Analysis Should Cover

The letter outlines specific areas for the OBR to examine. First, it should assess the benefits and drawbacks of various closer relationships with the EU. Second, it should consider measures of UK economic policy uncertainty, which spiked during the referendum and stayed high.

Third, the analysis should model the structural change currently taking place in the UK economy. The writer notes that without such structural change, there would have been no reason to vote for Brexit in the first place. The OBR has the knowledge and expertise to model these factors.

Implications for UK Politics and Economy

If Burnham takes the lead, he could shift the Brexit debate from vague positioning to concrete proposals. This would affect not only his political standing but also the UK’s economic trajectory. The letter suggests that thoughtful guidance, like Pericles provided, can yield significant benefits.

For businesses and voters alike, clarity on the EU relationship is crucial. An OBR analysis would provide a factual basis for decision-making, reducing uncertainty and fostering stability. The background to this story is set out in Business: latest articles.

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