Burnham’s ambitious plans must work for business - Chamber

Andy Burnham must put businesses at the heart of his ambitious devolution plans, business leaders in Greater Birmingham said today.

In a speech yesterday, the Prime Minister-in-waiting vowed to deliver radical change to the nation’s politics by handing more power to its regions.

Promising Britain’s “biggest rebalancing of power”, Burnham said he would build more social housing, give local governments more control over water and other utilities and tackle the cost-of-living crisis.

Burnham, who is the strong favourite to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister, said he would create a 'Number 10 north' to share some ‌of the ⁠PM’s Downing Street operations with a team in Manchester, specifically on housing, the reform of utilities and reindustrialisation.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce welcomed the emphasis on devolution – but insisted Burnham must allow business to shape these powers.

Henrietta Brealey (pictured), CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “Greater devolution can be a game changer for the UK economy - but delivery will be key.

“Andy Burnham’s focus on shifting power out of Whitehall reflects what Greater Birmingham businesses have long called for, including through the GBCC’s Business Commission West Midlands and Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel.

“If Burnham becomes the next UK Prime Minister, we urgently need to see that ambition turning into action. Business must be at the heart of shaping these powers, with clear plans to tackle cost pressures, close skills gaps and boost export activity.

“Government must also set out how this will be delivered within fiscal constraints, and work for the whole UK, including major regional economies such as Greater Birmingham.

“Business rates reform has been promised for too long. It must now be delivered, to support high streets and give firms across all sectors the confidence to invest and grow.”