Lucy Powell says Andy Burnham will reform Downing Street briefing culture

Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell has stated that Andy Burnham plans to reform the briefing culture at Downing Street, which she described as a "boys club" that silenced critics and disproportionately targeted women. Powell indicated that appointments were not based on merit but on factional ties and that Burnham has vowed to dismiss any staff member found briefing negatively against women.

Burnham's proposed 'No 10 North' initiative aims to decentralise government power, with plans to relocate parts of government to Manchester and grant regional leaders greater authority over planning, transport, housing, and economic development. Powell emphasized that these reforms would not impose a single model across England, allowing regions to tailor economic strategies to their industrial strengths.

Meanwhile, ministers are preparing to approve sweeping council reorganisations across up to 16 areas in England, a move intended to simplify planning, speed up infrastructure projects, and enhance regional investment attraction. These reforms are seen as an early political test for Burnham's premiership, with over 18 million voters potentially participating in newly expanded council elections next May.

Burnham has pledged to adhere to Labour's fiscal rules while arguing that Britain's centralised economic model has hindered productivity and investment outside London. His broader economic agenda includes devolving more powers and reforming procurement to favour British industry.