Andy Burnham 'gets it' - London mayor Sadiq Khan
ReutersAndy Burnham "gets it" when it comes to devolving power to mayors and ensuring London's success will benefit the whole UK, London mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has said.
The former Greater Manchester mayor gave his first major speech since launching his bid to replace Sir Keir Starmer on Monday.
Burnham said there was an imbalance between national and local governments, and that he would "take power out of the centre" and expand his office to Manchester - what he calls "No 10 North".
Following the speech, Sir Sadiq said he was looking forward to working with him but would challenge him "when it's not in our city's interests".
Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) Sir Sadiq said: "I've worked with him in the Cabinet, in the Shadow Cabinet, as a Metro Mayor and even on the football pitch.
"He can see the difference we can make working together.
"My message is the same one that I gave to David Cameron, to Theresa May, to Boris Johnson, to Liz Truss, to Rishi Sunak and to Keir Starmer – when London succeeds, the rest of the country succeeds.
"I will work with you when it's in our capital city's interest, but I will challenge you when it's not in our city's interests.
"We contribute four out of every £10 in taxes raised by the Government. We could contribute even more if there's more devolution of powers and resources."
PA MediaSo far, he is the only Labour MP to announce, and if he remains the sole candidate he could become the next prime minister as early as 20 July.
He did not spell out what would be given to different areas but suggested regions would see "greater public control of essential services" such as water, energy and transport and that London could have more say over education and housing.
If no other Labour MP makes a leadership bid, Burnham is expected to become prime minister on 20 July.
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