Andy Burnham's Devolution Plan: Strengthening the Centre to 2026

Andy Burnham's devolution strategy aims to address Britain's overcentralisation of power, a root cause of social and economic malaise. The new prime minister has signalled intent to bolster No 10 as an organ of executive power, creating an apparent contradiction: fortifying the centre to pursue decentralisation. This paradox arises from how the British state fails to work effectively, with too much policy historically directed from Whitehall.

The Case for Devolution and Central Empowerment

Reforms in recent years have created institutions with varying degrees of local autonomy, such as elected mayoralties like the one in Manchester that gave Mr Burnham a national platform. However, genuine control—especially over fiscal policy—has not matched the rhetoric. The Treasury remains wary of facilitating profligacy in lower tiers of government, while devolved leaders often claim credit for successes but shift blame for failures onto national government.

Meanwhile, the prime minister's office is thinly resourced compared to equivalent institutions in other democracies. Vital functions depend on a small number of special advisers who are too often buffeted by crises to focus on strategic direction. A lack of focus in No 10 allows chancellors to monopolise economic policymaking. Under Sir Keir Starmer, these systemic weaknesses were aggravated by a failure to set clear priorities.

Andy Burnham's Corrective Measures

Mr Burnham looks reassuringly determined to correct that mistake. A notable appointment is the elevation of Louise Haigh, a close ally, to first secretary of state with responsibility for government coordination. She will run the Cabinet Office as a department for enacting the will of the prime minister. Ms Haigh has spoken of the need for a 'proper beefed-up economic unit' in No 10.

Comparison: Centralised vs Decentralised Governance

Key Takeaways

• True devolution requires a strong central government to set frameworks and coordinate policy.
• Fiscal autonomy is essential for meaningful local control, not just administrative delegation.
• No 10 must be resourced adequately to drive strategic direction and avoid being overwhelmed by crises.
• Appointments like Louise Haigh signal a shift toward a more empowered Cabinet Office.

FAQ

Andy Burnham's approach recognises that decentralising power cannot happen by weakening the centre—it requires a purposeful, well-resourced central government that empowers local leaders while maintaining national cohesion. The success of this strategy will depend on whether No 10 can balance control with trust in local decision-making.