A leaked plan detailing Andy Burnham’s approach to reforming Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits and tackling the welfare bill has surfaced as he prepares to become the Labour Party’s next Prime Minister.
Burnham, currently the Greater Manchester Mayor, is set to unveil a strategy that would devolve considerable powers and funding to regional mayors, empowering them to spearhead efforts to get more people into work and reduce reliance on welfare.
In a major upcoming speech focused on the economy, Burnham will propose handing English regions control over welfare spending to better manage the rising costs associated with benefits. Central to his vision is granting mayors clear responsibility for addressing benefits dependency, with their funding tied to their success in helping people re-enter the workforce.
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The Makerfield MP is also reportedly considering devolving post-16 education powers to mayors, intending to improve skills training and enhance employment prospects for young adults.
Henri Murison, chief executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, praised Burnham’s approach, stating: “Having worked with Andy for many years, I am confident that through devolution combined with public and private investment, he can significantly reduce the costs of out-of-work benefits and poverty-related health issues. This will ease financial burdens currently shouldered by London and the Greater South East, which subsidize historic underinvestment in the North.”
During his Manchester speech, Burnham is expected to outline how his leadership will provide the “circuit-breaker” Britain needs, emphasizing his commitment to reshaping politics to work for everyone.