PM offers Scotland more powers in bid to move past 'old politics of conflict'

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has offered Scotland greater powers in a bid to move past the "old politics of conflict" and work together on devolving more authority to local communities. Speaking in Motherwell, Burnham stated he wanted to design a new model of "regional, economic empowerment" across Scotland, including an offer of devolution from the Department for Work and Pensions.

This would provide localised employment support, akin to measures in England but tailored by the Scottish government in Holyrood, potentially paving the way for further, "deeper" devolution. Scottish Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn revealed that the First Minister had sent a letter to the Prime Minister requesting greater powers for Holyrood, with employability powers being a top priority.

Burnham, however, ruled out another independence referendum, urging politicians to focus on solutions for people right now instead of getting bogged down in constitutional questions. Scottish Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Burnham and SNP, arguing that both parties are more interested in discussing more powers for politicians rather than improving living standards for people in Scotland.