Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, announced that regional mayors will hold key positions in shaping UK economic policy under the government's new "No 10 North" initiative. Burnham characterized the opening of a northern headquarters as "the biggest rebalancing of power our country has seen" and emphasized that "no one in government loses when power is shared."
The new prime minister has revived the National Economic Council, originally established by Gordon Brown during the 2008 financial crisis. This body will now include regional leaders in decision-making on economic matters affecting the entire country. The move represents a significant shift toward devolved governance and regional input on national policy.
The establishment of No 10 North signals the government's commitment to addressing regional inequality and moving power away from Westminster. By elevating mayors to central roles in economic councils, the administration aims to incorporate local expertise and perspectives into national planning. Burnham framed this development as beneficial for growth across all of Britain, not merely the north.
This governance restructuring carries implications for how the UK approaches regional development and economic strategy. Previous governments had concentrated decision-making power in London and Whitehall. This approach attempts to balance centralized coordination with regional autonomy. Regional mayors now possess formal channels to influence national economic policy rather than operating at the periphery of Westminster discussions.
The revival of Brown's economic council reflects lessons learned from the 2008 crisis and contemporary recognition that regional economies require tailored approaches. Burnham's involvement signals Buy-in from Manchester's leadership on the model. Whether other regional mayors embrace this power-sharing arrangement will shape how effectively the government implements devolved economic strategy.
The initiative faces practical questions about coordination between No 10 North and existing regional bodies, and whether shared power translates to substantive policy changes or remains consultative in nature.