00:01Andy Burnham says a future government led by him would move power and investment away from Whitehall and towards England's
00:10regions.
00:10For the West Midlands, that could affect decisions on housing, transport skills, employment support, regeneration and the services run by
00:19councils.
00:20His proposal for a No. 10 North would create a permanent base for the Prime Minister's operation in Manchester.
00:27He says it would help break what he calls an over-centralised system, giving mayors and local authorities a stronger
00:35voice in national decisions.
00:37Mr Burnham has also promised more social housing, reform of business rates and greater support for technical education.
00:45Each could have consequences here, where councils, businesses and the combined authority already work together on growth, town centres training
00:55and major infrastructure projects.
00:58Supporters of deeper devolution say local leaders are better placed to understand communities and target spending where it's needed.
01:06But the issue is money. Extra responsibilities without long-term funding could leave councils carrying more risk, while Whitehall retains
01:15ultimate control.
01:17For the West Midlands, a Burnham Premiership could mean more say in government and freedom to shape local priorities.
01:24It would not automatically solve entrenched problems.
01:28It is.
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