Prime Minister Andy Burnham proposes Scottish regional empowerment amid cost-of-living criticism

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has proposed a new model of regional empowerment for Scotland, inviting the Scottish Government to work together to shift decision-making power from Holyrood and Westminster to local regions and cities. The initiative, involving No10 North and the Scotland Office, aims to drive reindustrialisation and unlock economic opportunities by giving communities more autonomy.

Simultaneously, SNP Westminster leader Dave Doogan has criticized the Prime Minister, warning of a cost-of-living ‘emergency’ this winter. Doogan claims that despite promises to provide relief, major household expenses—including energy bills, petrol, diesel, and mortgage rates—have increased since Burnham took office in July.

The SNP is calling for urgent government action, specifically requesting the removal of the 20% VAT charge on petrol and diesel to help mitigate the impact of rising costs on Scottish households.