Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has issued a provocative call for Londoners to embrace 'Manchesterism' as a solution to the UK's persistent north-south divide. In a recent opinion piece, Burnham argues that the capital's dominance has stifled regional growth and that adopting northern values could foster a fairer, more balanced nation.
What Is Manchesterism?
Burnham defines Manchesterism as a blend of northern grit, community solidarity, and a pragmatic approach to governance. It draws from Manchester's industrial heritage and its modern revival as a hub for culture, technology, and sport. According to Burnham, this ethos prioritizes collective well-being over individual wealth, and local decision-making over central control.
He contrasts this with what he sees as London-centric policies that have concentrated investment and opportunity in the southeast. 'For too long, Westminster has treated the rest of the country as an afterthought,' Burnham writes. 'Manchesterism offers a different path—one rooted in cooperation, not competition.'
The North-South Divide in Numbers
Burnham's argument is backed by stark statistics. According to the Office for National Statistics, London's gross value added per hour worked is 32% higher than the UK average, while the North West lags by 8%. Meanwhile, public spending per capita in London is £12,500 compared to £10,800 in the North West, despite higher deprivation levels in the latter. Burnham notes that 'the gap isn't just economic—it's cultural and political.'
A Challenge to Londoners
Burnham directly addresses Londoners, urging them to 'look beyond the M25' and consider how their city's success has come at a cost to others. He suggests that Londoners could benefit from Manchesterism by embracing greater community engagement and supporting devolution for other regions. 'Londoners are not the enemy,' he writes. 'But they are part of a system that needs to change.'
He points to Manchester's achievements under his leadership, including the 'Mancunian Way' of tackling homelessness and the city's successful bid to host major events like the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine. 'These are not just local victories—they show what can be achieved when you trust people to run their own affairs.'
Political Reactions
The proposal has drawn mixed reactions. Conservative MP for Bury North, James Daly, dismissed it as 'northern posturing,' while Labour's shadow levelling up secretary, Lisa Nandy, praised Burnham's 'bold vision.' Political analyst Professor Tony Travers of the London School of Economics noted that 'Manchesterism is a catchy term, but it risks oversimplifying complex regional disparities.'
Burnham remains undeterred. 'This isn't about pitting north against south,' he insists. 'It's about building a country where your postcode doesn't determine your prospects.'
