U.K. PM Burnham signals support for written constitution
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has expressed support for establishing a written constitution to replace the current system of statutes and common law. This initiative aligns with his broader agenda of devolving power from London to regional authorities.
Why it matters
A shift to a written constitution would represent a fundamental change in the governance and legal structure of the United Kingdom.
Britain's new Prime Minister Andy Burnham has signalled his support for a written constitution for the U.K., which unlike most countries, does not have one authoritative document.
Since entering office just two weeks ago, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester has made devolution of power to regional authorities a focus of his administration.
"In the end, I think it does start to point towards a new constitutional settlement," Mr. Burnham said of his devolution plans on the weekend.
Calling for a "new clear set of principles about how this country should be run", Mr. Burnham said there was a need for a written Constitution — something he has called for before he was Prime Minister.
"It's wrong that people are left arguing for things that are just fundamental... and the lack of a constitution disempowers places in that situation," said Mr. Burnham.
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