Key facts
- Andy Burnham is seeking cross-party consensus on urgent reforms to social care.
- He invited Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey to discuss solutions.
- Burnham is reportedly committed to exploring a system free at the point of use, similar to the NHS.
- A potential funding mechanism discussed is replacing inheritance tax with a 10% levy on estates.
- The Prime Minister's office will accelerate an independent review led by Louise Casey.
- An average of 13,600 hospital beds daily were occupied by patients medically fit to leave, partly due to social care availability.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is advocating for urgent, cross-party consensus on reforming social care, framing it as a critical issue requiring "problem-solving, not point-scoring." He has invited Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey to discuss potential solutions, though both parties have expressed reservations and concerns.
Burnham's proposed strategy includes exploring a system free at the point of use, akin to the National Health Service. He has not ruled out a previous suggestion of replacing inheritance tax with a 10% levy on estates, which could raise significant funds. This push comes amid ongoing pressures on the NHS, with an average of 13,600 hospital beds daily occupied by patients medically fit to leave, partly due to social care availability.
The Prime Minister's office plans to expedite an independent review led by Louise Casey, which will include a public consultation. However, the path to consensus is fraught with challenges, including the financial burden of reform, potential new taxes, and differing political priorities. Labour MPs have voiced concerns about protecting homeowners and those who have saved for retirement from new tax burdens.
While the Liberal Democrats have long pushed for cross-party talks, the Conservatives have criticized the short notice and public nature of Burnham's invitation. Nigel Farage of Reform UK has also criticized Burnham, accusing him of working with the "failed political establishment" and ignoring his party's significant public support.