‘Manchesterism’ is a mirage
Andy Burnham's political brand, termed 'Manchesterism', is under scrutiny as critics question its substance. Despite claims of transformational policies, his record as mayor shows a reliance on previous leadership successes. The economic growth of Greater Manchester is debated, with some arguing it lacks real impact on residents' wages and job opportunities.
- ▪Andy Burnham has been accused of being a serial flip-flopper in his political stance.
- ▪He claims 'Manchesterism' represents a shift away from neoliberalism and aims for transformational change.
- ▪Critics argue that the economic growth in Greater Manchester predates Burnham's tenure and lacks tangible benefits for residents.
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‘Manchesterism’ is a mirage Andy Burnham's political brand is built on hype, misdirection and stolen valour. i Picture by: Getty dataLayer.push({ event: 'author', author: "Fraser Myers" }) Fraser Myers Deputy editor 26th May 2026 i Picture by: Getty Share Topics Politics UK Want unlimited, ad-free access? Become a spiked supporter. ‘There’s no such thing as Starmerism and there never will be’, declared Keir Starmer in 2020, shortly after assuming the leadership of the Labour Party. ‘I have no ideology at all.’ With that statement, Starmer had tried to paint himself as a pragmatic, commonsensical leader. ‘Unburdened by doctrine’ is how he would convey the same message on the day he entered Downing Street in July 2024.
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