Andy Burnham's plan to devolve power by allowing England's regional mayors a share of income tax aims to address regional inequalities. While economists support the principle, challenges include avoiding weaker economies falling behind, repairing damage from austerity, and a lack of local government expertise and resources.
England's regional mayors will gain the ability to borrow against future income and retain a share of income tax and business rates from 2028, replacing existing grants. This "transformational" shift, announced by Andy Burnham, aims to empower local leaders to invest in major projects and improve public services, moving decision-making out of Whitehall.
Andy Burnham announced regional mayors will play a leading role in UK economic policy through the revived National Economic Council and the opening of No 10 North in Manchester, aiming for a significant rebalancing of power and driving growth across the UK.
Mayors like Andy Burnham are eyeing higher office, but can their experience running cities translate to national leadership? Experts weigh in on delivery, investor wooing, and financial constraints.
UK ministers are exploring a major reform of the tax system, potentially devolving billions of pounds in business rates to regional mayors. The move aims to give local leaders more control over tax revenue, reward economic growth, and address regional inequality, with proposals expected in the upcoming budget.
