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Greater
Manchester
is well placed
for success
collaborate and deliver effective
policies and solutions and then
demand the appropriate support
from the government – including
financial contributions.”
Better than London
When quizzed about the Greater
Manchester Mayoral model
compared to London, Burnham was
adamant that the Manchester model
is better. He stated: “Our model
drives much closer relationships
between the Mayor and the councils
who are key to so much policy
delivery. But devolution of the health
and social care budget is the “game
changer.” Health spending influences
so many areas of public policy. I am
passionate to see reinforced links
between health and housing policy
which has been lost since the early
days of the NHS. I am keen to looking
afresh at the design and quality of
housing to make sure care needs are
factored in from the outset.”
On Housing, Burnham welcomed the
recent Housing White Paper, notably
its desire to promote a greater mix
of housing tenures.
The journey to devolution
Burnham feels the appointment
of a Mayor marks a major step
forward for devolution. “The Mayor
will have a clear mandate and can
provide leadership and direction. I
want business and the public and
voluntary sectors to get behind
my agenda.” He recognises that
Greater Manchester is well placed
for success: “The city region has
never really stopped collaborating.
We have a 30 year track record of
partnership working. I recognise the
great contribution of civic leaders
like Sir Richard Leese and Sir Howard
Bernstein but the election will move
us further forward.”
PERSPECTIVES
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IN CONVERSATION