To save Britain, Burnham must take on the Treasury

Over the past decade, five UK prime ministers have failed due to an inability to address public sector mismanagement. Andy Burnham, as mayor of Greater Manchester, experienced firsthand how Whitehall's over-centralization hampers regional governance. The article argues that Whitehall, especially the Treasury, holds excessive power, controlling 80% of public spending compared to 30% in Germany. It proposes four reforms: devolving power to local authorities, changing recruitment practices in the Treasury, reducing micromanagement, and allowing regions to develop their own economic strategies. The piece highlights the need for subsidiarity and better skills in both central and local government.