STORY
Andy Burnham is facing growing scrutiny over how far he would expand public control of essential services if he becomes Prime Minister, with water, transport, energy and housing emerging as early policy tests.
The debate follows Burnham’s previous support for stronger public control of utilities and his record in Greater Manchester, where bus services were brought under public oversight through the Bee Network. Labour figures and policy advisers are now watching whether his leadership platform will include direct nationalisation, tougher regulation or new public development bodies.
Thames Water’s financial position is likely to be one of the first major tests of the next Labour leader’s approach. Burnham’s choice of Chancellor and his first economic speech are expected to give clearer signals about whether he intends to shift Government policy towards a more interventionist state.