Full Breakdown
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham Pushes Regional Devolution Across the Nations
By Drooid · · How we work
In this breakdown
01
Devolution Talks in Glasgow
Prime Minister Andy Burnham met with Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney and Wales’s First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth in Glasgow during a National Economic Council (National Economics Council (NEC)) gathering. Both leaders described the bilateral discussions as “constructive” and a “welcome start” to exploring additional powers for local governments. Burnham emphasized that no part of the United Kingdom should be “left behind” and that the four nations should move forward at a similar pace.
02
Official Statements & Responses
- A Downing Street spokesperson called the NEC meeting “extremely positive” and said the government would “review and respond” to the issues raised.
- John Swinney pledged to work “constructively and collaboratively” with Burnham, adding that any further devolution must drive economic growth, higher wages, and better job opportunities.
- He also noted the Prime Minister’s recognition of under-funding in Welsh rail.
- The Prime Minister’s office released a statement that the First Minister of Wales agreed to start a process to explore regional empowerment, reindustrialisation, and growth in every postcode.
Visual evidence
Images from the story
03
Data & Statistics on Fiscal Flexibility
- Wales currently can borrow up to £165 million per year, with total debt capped at £1.1 billion.
- Scotland’s borrowing limit is £472 million per year, with a total debt ceiling of £3.14 billion.
- In 2023, Wales lost £155 million seized by the Treasury because the funds were not spent within a prescribed timeframe and the Welsh Government could not shift money between capital and revenue pots.
04
Criticism & Opposition
- Defence Secretary Wes Streeting criticised the Scottish Government for “hoarding” powers transferred from Westminster, arguing that devolution should also flow from Holyrood to local authorities.
- Former Welsh Labour minister Lee Waters warned that transplanting an English-style mayoral model onto Wales “doesn’t work,” citing differences in population density and political geography.
- The council umbrella body Cosla and three trade unions issued a joint statement expressing concern that the proposed reforms were being driven in a “top-down” manner, urging broader engagement with local partners.
05
Verbatim Quotes
- “There were further measures in the budget around regional devolution across all of England, and I don’t want to see Scotland left behind,” — Andy Burnham
- “Most people in the country, listening to that budget, will be thinking to themselves ‘is that it?’.” — Andy Burnham
06
What’s Next
The Prime Minister indicated that a “policy sprint” led by No 10 North, involving officials from both governments, will advance the agenda. Details of the forthcoming policy sprint and any concrete proposals for additional powers remain to be announced.