Burnham Pushes Devolution Amidst SNP Independence Drive

John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, leads the Scottish Government.

Andy Burnham plans to announce the devolution of decision-making powers from both Westminster and Holyrood to regions and towns. He will deliver his speech in Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, on Friday.

The Prime Minister expressed a desire to move away from 'the old politics of conflict.' He stated, 'I want to make a serious and genuine offer to the Scottish Government. I want to move on from the old politics of conflict.'

He further asserted that Scotland stands as one of Europe's most centralised nations. The Prime Minister also cited the English experience, noting, 'The English experience is it makes sense to put more transport powers in those places, put more housing powers in.'

Scottish minister Stephen Flynn confirmed his government's openness to collaborate with UK counterparts on public service reform. Flynn, however, criticised perceived hypocrisy regarding the UK government's stance on EU relations and independence referendums.

The SNP accused the Prime Minister of hypocrisy for proposing to reopen the Brexit debate and re-examine the UK’s relationship with the EU. The Prime Minister stressed the need to focus on tangible improvements, stating, 'Too much time is wasted on those dramas, it consumes too much energy. Get into things that can make a difference in people’s lives now.'

Douglas Alexander, the Scottish Secretary, claims the Prime Minister is in Scotland to make a substantive and genuine offer to the Scottish Government to empower regions across Scotland. Alexander also claims the Scottish Government hoards power.

Conversely, Jenny Gilruth claims most of Andy Burnham's significant announcements since taking office appear to be 'England only.' Gilruth further claims Burnham creates a 'Number 10 North' but places it firmly in the southern half of the UK.