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Burnham Slams Blair Essay, Cites Crisis Ahead of Makerfield By-Election

5/29/2026

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Burnham Slams Blair

Mayor Andy Burnham says Tony Blair’s essay ignores the worsening cost-of-living crisis for millions of Britons.
Tony Blair published a 5,600-word essay criticizing Labour’s direction, prompting responses from Andy Burnham and Keir Starmer.
Burnham says economic growth needs strong public control, citing Greater Manchester’s bus re-nationalisation.
The Makerfield by-election, a 2016 Leave seat, could return Burnham to Parliament and challenge Starmer.

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Burnham Drives Growth

Makerfield residents now have the authority to shape the region’s future after years of being overlooked by Westminster.
Mayor Andy Burnham says Tony Blair’s essay ignores the worsening cost-of-living crisis for millions of Britons.
Greater Manchester posted a 3.1 % annual growth rate, the UK’s highest, while cutting inner-city deprivation.
Burnham’s administration funded Stockport regeneration, let, and capped bus fares at £2, free youth travel.

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Burnham Slams Blair

Mayor Andy Burnham says Tony Blair’s essay ignores the worsening cost-of-living crisis for millions of Britons.
Tony Blair published a 5,600-word essay criticizing Labour’s direction, prompting responses from Andy Burnham and Keir Starmer.
Burnham says economic growth needs strong public control, citing Greater Manchester’s bus re-nationalisation.
The Makerfield by-election, a 2016 Leave seat, could return Burnham to Parliament and challenge Starmer.

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