Devolution’s Dirty Secret | Manchester News

Andy Burnham’s bold plan to shift power from Westminster to local areas by letting mayors keep a slice of income tax is stirring up complex challenges. While the idea could help bridge England’s economic divides—currently more centralized than France or Japan—it risks deepening inequality, as wealthier, fast-growing regions like London and Greater Manchester would benefit most. With implementation delayed until 2028 and many new mayoralties still unformed, the plan faces hurdles: weakened local governments lack staff and expertise to handle newfound powers, and past austerity has left councils financially fragile. Still, economists see potential in empowering local leaders—if it’s done right, it could spark real economic renewal. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a69f20a434f380d7