When Andy Burnham stepped into No. 10, all eyes turned to his 'bezzie mate,' Steve Rotheram. But who is this man, and what role will he play in the new government?
The Rise of Andy Burnham and His Liverpool Connection
Andy Burnham's journey to becoming Prime Minister is an intriguing one, and it's closely intertwined with Steve Rotheram, the Mayor of Liverpool City Region. While Burnham's cabinet is taking shape, it's worth noting that influence often extends beyond the formal roles. In this case, we look north to Liverpool, where Rotheram's presence is significant.
A Political Bromance with Roots in Liverpool
Steve Rotheram, a former bricklayer who played a part in rebuilding the Falklands, is an enigma to many in Westminster. His political career began as an MP for Liverpool Walton, serving as an aide to Jeremy Corbyn during his leadership. In 2017, he and Burnham made a move to newly created mayoral posts, with Rotheram taking on the role in Liverpool.
The bromance between the two dates back to 2008 when Burnham was Gordon Brown's Culture Secretary and Rotheram was Liverpool's Lord Mayor. Their bond strengthened as they navigated Westminster together, feeling like outsiders. Their friendship was further solidified by their shared experience of the Hillsborough disaster, where they fought for justice alongside the victims' families.
The Power of Friendship and Devolution
In his first speech as Labour leader, Burnham emphasized his commitment to devolving power from Westminster and Whitehall to the regions. He specifically mentioned Rotheram's ambition to bring the Merseyrail network into public ownership. This reflects a broader agenda supported by other mayors, who seek greater control over skills and technical education for young people.
The proposed plans involve mayors appointing commissioners for health and education, mirroring the role of police and crime commissioners. This shift towards local control is seen as a way to make decisions at a more human scale, as highlighted by Oliver Coppard, the Mayor of South Yorkshire.
The Future of Rotheram and the Devolution Agenda
While Rotheram has no intention of leaving his mayoral role, which he describes as the 'pinch-me privilege of my life,' his influence on the new government is undeniable. He understands that public money must be handled with integrity, and he's committed to ensuring that the devolution agenda is not compromised by personal friendships.
As Burnham takes on the role of Prime Minister, the devolution agenda he championed in Greater Manchester is set to expand. Rotheram and other mayors will play a crucial role in shaping this agenda, advocating for greater local control and a more human-centric approach to decision-making.
A New Era of Regional Empowerment
The rise of Andy Burnham and the influence of his 'bezzie mate,' Steve Rotheram, signal a potential shift in British politics. With a focus on devolving power and empowering regions, the new government could bring about significant changes. It's an exciting time for those who believe in the importance of local control and decision-making.
Personally, I find it fascinating how personal connections can shape political landscapes. The bond between Burnham and Rotheram, forged through shared experiences and a sense of outsider status, has the potential to bring about real change. It's a reminder that politics is not just about formal roles and policies but also about the human connections that drive them.
