IPPR North Urges Oversight as UK Shifts Power to Mayors

The thinktank IPPR North has called for increased official scrutiny of England's regional mayors as Prime Minister Andy Burnham prepares a transformational shift of power away from Whitehall. Under plans to be detailed in a white paper on October 28, mayors will gain control over billions in additional funding, including the ability to retain business rates from 2027 and a share of local income tax from 2028, alongside the power to implement a tourist tax.

While IPPR North supports these measures to reverse over-centralization, it warns that mismanaged funding could derail public support for devolution. To prevent corruption and the misuse of funds, the thinktank proposes establishing regional audit offices, appointing senior accounting officers for each region, and creating enhanced accountability committees for larger authorities such as London and Greater Manchester.

Aditi Sriram, the lead author of the IPPR North report, argued that accountability is essential for the success of the agenda, noting that mayors have long been reliant on Whitehall for money and permission. The proposals follow a July paper from the Cabinet Office outlining the shift of authority to English regions.