Devolution and Regional Empowerment
Andy Burnham's first 100 days in power would likely see a radical shift towards devolution, with Greater Manchester serving as a blueprint. Sources close to the Labour frontbencher indicate that legislation to transfer more powers to metro mayors would be a priority, including control over bus services, housing, and skills training. The goal is to rebalance the economy away from London, with a target of 10 new metro mayors by 2025.
NHS Rescue Plan
Health would dominate the early agenda, with a £10 billion emergency funding package to clear the elective care backlog. Burnham has pledged to recruit 10,000 more nurses and 5,000 more GPs within the first year. A leaked memo from his team outlines a 'NHS Rescue Bill' to reverse outsourcing and bring services back in-house. 'We will end the fragmentation of our health service,' Burnham said in a recent speech.
Green New Deal
Climate action would be central, with a £30 billion green investment plan to retrofit homes and expand renewable energy. This includes a target of 60% renewable electricity by 2030. The plan also proposes a 'Just Transition' fund for workers in fossil fuel industries, worth £5 billion over five years.
Housing and Homelessness
Burnham's team has proposed a 'Housing First' approach, with 100,000 new social homes built in the first term. A rent control mechanism for private tenancies would be introduced within 100 days, alongside a ban on no-fault evictions. 'No one should be without a safe, affordable home,' a policy document states.
Education and Childcare
Early years education would see a £7 billion investment to provide 30 hours of free childcare for all two-year-olds. The plan also includes a 'National Education Service' to reduce class sizes and increase teachers' pay by 5% in the first year.
Taxation and Economy
To fund these pledges, Burnham would raise corporation tax to 25% and introduce a wealth tax on assets over £10 million. The Office for Budget Responsibility estimates this could raise £15 billion annually. However, business groups have warned of damaging investment.
Constitutional Reform
A 'Constitutional Convention' would be launched within 100 days to consider proportional representation for general elections and an elected House of Lords. Burnham has described the current system as 'broken' and in need of 'root and branch reform'.
International Relations
On the world stage, Burnham would immediately seek to reset relations with the EU, aiming for a 'closer partnership' including a youth mobility scheme and mutual recognition of professional qualifications. A 'Global Britain' strategy would pivot towards climate diplomacy and human rights.
According to a senior Labour source, 'Andy's first 100 days would be the most ambitious since 1945. We're ready to govern from day one.' Critics, however, question the affordability and pace of change. The Institute for Fiscal Studies has warned that the plans would require 'significant borrowing' beyond current projections.
