About this episode

The episode discusses Andy Burnham's proposal for devolving power from Westminster to local governments and the implications of this idea.

Andy Burnham’s big idea for government is to shift power out of Westminster. In his first major speech setting out his plans for government, he outlined his vision this week for a No 10 North and to devolve a range of powers to mayors and councils. But how would his blueprint for devolution work – and is it actually popular with voters? Burnham believes it would answer the public’s call for greater control of public services, but sceptics worry about inefficiency, accountability and scrutiny. The likely incoming prime minister must also grapple with tough spending decisions, after Sir Keir Starmer finally set out his defence investment plan, leaving a £5bn black hole for Burnham to fill. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage has been noticeably quieter than usual. Is this a deliberate strategic pause as he works out a shift in political priorities, or simply the calm before another high-profile campaign?  Host Lucy Fisher is joined by political correspondent Anna Gross, deputy political editor Jim Pickard and chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley. Follow: Lucy @LOS_Fisher or @ lucyfisher.ft.com ; Robert @robertshrimsley and Anna, @AnnaSophieGross Want more?   Five things we…

People in this episode

Host: Lucy Fisher

Guests: Anna Gross, Jim Pickard, Robert Shrimsley

Topics covered

• devolution
• political strategy
• public services
• government power
• defence investment
• local governance

Keywords

• Andy Burnham
• devolution
• Westminster
• public services
• defence investment
• political strategy
• local governance
• Nigel Farage

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Westminster, No 10 North, Sir Keir Starmer

More episodes of Political Fix

• Andy Burnham’s cabinet: who’s in, who’s out? · July 21, 2026 · 42 min
• The Burnham era begins: Mahmood set for chancellor? · July 17, 2026 · 35 min
• Farage in a fix; Burnham unbeatable · July 10, 2026 · 35 min
• Nigel Farage tries to ‘take back control’ · July 7, 2026 · 17 min
• Live special: Ten years after Brexit · June 25, 2026 · 57 min
• Can anyone challenge Andy Burnham for PM? · June 23, 2026 · 36 min

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