Manchester was Burnham's rehearsal – now get ready to pay the bill

This opinion article by Gareth Davies MP critiques Andy Burnham's record as Mayor of Greater Manchester, arguing that his tenure was characterized by higher taxes, increased borrowing, and reliance on national taxpayer subsidies. Davies highlights that Burnham's mayoral precept for Band D homes rose nearly sevenfold, the combined authority's debt reached £1.34bn, and his bus network runs a £227m annual deficit. The article contrasts this with the constraints of national leadership, noting UK national debt at £2.98 trillion and high borrowing costs. Davies warns that Burnham's proposed policies—including £40bn in housing borrowing and nationalization plans—could lead to significant tax increases and higher mortgage rates for British citizens, as the country lacks fiscal room for further shocks.