Andy Burnham unveils mayoral vision for Greater Manchester businesses

In the latest move in his campaign to become Labour’s Greater Manchester mayoral candidate, Leigh MP Andy Burnham has revealed his vision to businesses.

Speaking to the business community about what Greater Manchester would look like post-Brexit under his leadership, Mr Burnham reiterated his commitment to driving growth for the region, with housing, transport and skills among his biggest priorities.

At the meeting, organised by PR firm Quatro, Mr Burnham promised to serve as a strong voice for Manchester and said he hoped to encourage greater collaboration across the North.

He also suggested the possibility of setting up a ‘cabinet of the North’ comprising the new Northern metropolitan mayors.

Further, Mr Burnham urged the Government to remain committed to the Northern Powerhouse and revealed he had already contacted new Prime Minister Theresa May, asking her to reassure the region that it is still as integral to the Government’s plans as it was under former Chancellor George Osborne.

Without a ‘bare minimum’ commitment to constructing a high-speed East-West train link, Mr Burnham said, the Northern Powerhouse vision would fail to become a reality.

He said at the briefing: “It was a pleasure to speak to so many business leaders about my vision for regeneration across Greater Manchester.

“It is essential that future opportunities, developments and prosperity are shared across all ten boroughs. But, to help deliver that prosperity we need to ensure that the Government keeps to its promise to deliver a Northern Powerhouse.”

He added: “The Government needs to put its money where its mouth is and provide the investment that we need.”

The Labour Party’s selection process for its Greater Manchester Mayoral candidate is now underway, with a decision set to be made in the coming weeks. Mr Burnham is competing against Bury MP Ivan Lewis and Interim Mayor Tony Lloyd for the position.

The director for Quatro’s activities in the North, Simon Collingwood, commented: “Now more than ever in a post-Brexit climate, investment in Greater Manchester is key.

“A strong Manchester and a strong north of England is essential to rebalance the economy and we need business and bold policies to deliver this.”

He continued: “The opportunities for growth across the region remain and it was good to hear Andy Burnham commit to driving forward the northern powerhouse agenda if he is successful in the race to be Mayor.

“Engaging with local business is essential and we are delighted to provide Andy with the platform to set out his vision for Greater Manchester.”