Burnham sets out his socialist stall and business barely gets a mention

Andy Burnham delivered a speech that left no doubt about his socialist beliefs. He painted a vision of what Britain could look like in ten years, emphasizing the need for "public control" of key sectors such as housing, transport, energy, water, and social care. Burnham's mantra is the belief in public control over these areas, which he sees as a liberating mix of political devolution, civic engagement, and democratic accountability.

However, this public control translates to state control, leading to increased bureaucracy, new layers of agencies, job creation in the public sector, and higher taxes.

While some may appreciate a political leader with convictions, Burnham's speech left the reporter cold. There were only two mentions of business, both of which highlighted businesses' use of essential resources and his "theory of growth." Burnham believes that if utilities are under public control and Westminster devolves power, it will optimise conditions for businesses to grow. The reporter questioned this concept, finding it hard to grasp and lacking substance.

The speech did not address key challenges we face today, such as the national debt, widening deficit, and welfare reform. Burnham did mention reforming the triple lock, but his solution was to implement Jeremy Corbyn's plans for a National Care Service. The CBI suggested that Burnham's vision was "painted in primary colours," with the main color being red, signaling his strong socialist stance.