Andy Burnham is backing a plan to give regional mayors a share of income tax, putting tax powers at the center of the latest UK devolution debate. The proposal is being presented as a way to give local leaders more control over funding and reduce their dependence on central government.
The idea fits into a broader push to expand devolved powers beyond spending decisions and into revenue raising. Supporters argue that if mayors receive a direct share of income tax, they could have more freedom to shape transport, housing and other local priorities without waiting on Treasury decisions.
Reports around the proposal also suggest mayors want greater flexibility to offer tax rebates to voters. That points to a wider argument about accountability, with local leaders seeking both more responsibility and more visible tools to respond to economic conditions in their regions.
The debate is likely to focus on how far the UK should go in shifting financial power away from Westminster. Burnham's position adds momentum to calls for a more locally driven model of government, where regional mayors have a stronger hand in both raising and using public money.
