Mixed reactions to Burnham's No 10 North proposal
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has proposed creating a 'No 10 North' in Manchester if he becomes prime minister, aiming to devolve power and resources across the UK. The plan has sparked a range of responses from readers, with some hailing it as a 'stellar idea' while others question its cost and regional focus.
Support for redressing power imbalance
Che Connon, 54, a CEO from Newcastle, said: 'It allows the country to recognise that things can work if not solely based in London.' He stressed the need for a focus on regional activities rather than specific regions to avoid infighting.
Adam, 34, from Chorley, Lancashire, called it 'a stellar idea' and said it could bring investment in housing, transport, and jobs to the north. 'It’s about time the north and all other parts of the UK get some of the investment they deserve,' he added.
Concerns over cost and location
Lynda Mitchell, 67, a retired local authority manager from Plymouth, expressed disappointment that the proposed office would be in Manchester, which she said has already received significant investment. She would prefer it in Norwich, Truro, or Penrith to expose staff to rural challenges.
Rose, a 75-year-old former civil servant from London, questioned the cost of duplicating security, infrastructure, and secure telecommunications. 'How much will this cost?' she asked, citing unrealistic initial costings of government projects.
Skepticism about regional collaboration
Phil, 55, a university lecturer from Sheffield, doubted the plan's effectiveness, calling it 'a bit of a conceit.' He argued the north is not a single entity and that devolution might not help neglected areas like coastal communities or Stockton-on-Tees.
Hope for tangible change
Mary, 26, from Macclesfield, supported the idea, saying it gives more power to communities. 'I think it is good to get some focus up north, instead of all the power being down south in London,' she said.
Robert, 20, a student from south Devon and south-east London, hoped the plan would lead to tangible change and re-engage young people in politics. 'I have been screaming for devolution since I discovered the concept,' he said.
