Skip to main content
Good instincts, bad analysis
With respect for the authors’ intentions, JOHN GREEN demonstrates the lack of class consciousness that undermines their critique of dysfunctional Britain
OF THE PEOPLE FOR THE PEOPLE: Mayor Andy Burnham proudly shows his Manchester worker bee (symbol of Manchester) tattoo ahead of the Great Manchester Run on May 22 2022

Head North - A Rallying Cry for a More Equal Britain
Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram
Trapeze, £22

ANDY BURNHAM, Mayor of Greater Manchester, and his mate Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, became so disillusioned with Westminster politics that they decided together to pack in their MP day jobs and go for two mayoral positions in the north. They felt they would be able to do more up there in terms of helping their own people, and make a real difference.

I’ve always had respect and admiration for both Andy Burnham and Steve Rotherham, as two of the very few MPs who are genuinely concerned about the welfare of their constituents, have a basic decency, strong principles and a genuine humanity.

In this jointly written book, they argue strongly for a different kind of politics that would address the stark inequalities in Britain and the north-south divide.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Land O’Cakes Hotel, Great Ancoats Street, Manchester in July 1962 / pic: Manchester Archives+/CC
Downing Street of the north / 16 July 2026
16 July 2026

KEITH FLETT looks at geographical roots of working-class activism in Britain

A view of the skyline in Manchester City Centre
Politics / 13 July 2026
13 July 2026

Can Andy Burnham’s programme deliver a productive economy – or merely a softer version of capitalism, asks VINCE MILLS

DMA general secretary Alan Mardghum
Durham Miners’ Gala / 11 July 2026
11 July 2026

Durham Miners’ Association general secretary ALAN MARDGHUM speaks to Ben Chacko about the PM-in-waiting, the threat of Reform and the radical change of direction this country needs