Andy Burnham proposes tax reforms and high‑street revival in the UK

Andy Burnham, newly elected MP for Makerfield and leading contender to succeed Prime Minister Keir Starmer, outlined a series of tax and economic proposals. He reaffirmed Labour’s pledge not to raise income tax, VAT or National Insurance, but said there is “room for movement on tax,” suggesting higher business rates on warehouse developments while cutting rates for pubs, restaurants, coffee shops and hairdressers to support the high street.

Burnham also called for replacing council tax and stamp duty with a charge linked to property values, de‑privatising water and energy utilities, and making bus travel free for 16‑ to 18‑year‑olds. He discussed these ideas in his first interview since becoming an MP, during a speech in Manchester’s People’s History Museum, and announced a forthcoming Reddit AMA to answer public questions.