Andy Burnham advocates for a written constitution in Britain
Andy Burnham suggests that Britain may require a written constitution as he proposes a “different approach” to governance. This announcement shines a light on the ongoing discussions surrounding the UK’s constitutional framework, reports BritPanorama.
The Prime Minister previously expressed support for such a document in his 2024 book, Head North: A Rallying Cry for a More Equal Britain, co-authored with Liverpool City Region metro mayor Steve Rotheram. This collaboration underscores a growing concern about regional fairness in governance.
Speaking earlier this week, Burnham detailed plans for increased devolution, arguing that these changes bolster the case for an official constitution, fundamentally altering Britain’s political landscape.
He stated, “In the end, I think it does start to point towards a new constitutional settlement, particularly with what Steve and I were writing about with that commitment to equivalent living standards.” Burnham highlighted his commitment to equitable growth across the country, referencing his prior speech in Manchester.
Burnham remarked, “I said in the speech I gave in Manchester a couple of weeks ago about good growth in every postcode. It’s not just a soundbite. I actually mean that. We need to have a country where everyone, in the end, can live a comparable life.”
Burnham expressed that this methodology should serve as the “cornerstone” of any written constitution. He elaborated, “I think there is a case for a new clear set of principles about how this country should be run and things that should be minimum basics in all parts of the country, related to essentials and connectivity.”
He noted, “It’s wrong that people are left arguing for things that are just fundamental, and they’re given in other parts of the country, and the lack of a constitution disempowers places in that situation.” This critique reflects a growing recognition of the disparities across the UK.
Furthermore, he remarked, “What’s coming through is we’re starting to say that everywhere will have the right to be a strategic authority, everywhere will have the right to retain more of their income tax, business rates.” Such declarations point towards a significant shift in the decentralisation of power.
Historically, the UK has operated without a formal written constitution, relying on common law, statutes, and conventions to govern its legal landscape. As calls for reform intensify, discussions surrounding an actual constitution continue to gain traction.
As Britain contemplates its constitutional future, the debate surrounding devolution and governance remains paramount in shaping a more equitable society.
