Power to the North: Burnham’s big 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, @AnnaSophieGrossWant more?  Five things we learnt from Andy Burnham’s speech Burnham’s Middle England challenge on devolution Britain’s case for meaningful devolution is overwhelming Britain’s defence investment predicament  The strategic dilemmas behind Britain’s defence spending mess  Nigel Farage’s pay from gold dealer doubles to £22,500 an hour Farage attempts to justify large donation from Christopher HarborneAndy Burnham and the politics of nostalgia Morgan McSw