Greater Manchester Re-elects Andy Burnham As Mayor

There was some good news for Kier Starmer's Labour Party today as Andy Burnham was re-elected as Mayor of Greater Manchester in what was a landslide victory.

In an emotional speech he thanked his family for their support.

He won 67.3% of the vote a rise from his 2017 result on a higher turnout.

Speaking after the announcement he reflected on his recent confrontation with the Government over Covid-19 restrictions.

"Where the government gets it right and treats us fairly I will work with them but where they don't I will challenge them as forcefully as I can," he said.

"Greater Manchester expects nothing less."

Damian Waters, CBI North West Director, said: "Congratulations to Andy Burnham on his re-election as Greater Manchester Mayor.

“The re-elected mayor is taking up office at a pivotal time as the economy looks to bounce back from the challenges of COVID, Brexit and climate change.

“It will take commitment and partnership between business and the mayor to turbocharge the region’s recovery. That means establishing a strong economic vision, while championing investment in sustainable infrastructure and the creation of a dynamic, skills-rich workforce.

“CBI members in the North West look forward to continuing to work closely with the mayor to deliver on these regional growth priorities and establish a business environment fit for the future.”

Mr Waters also commented on the re-election of Steve Rotherham to Liverpool City Region Mayor. Mr Rotherham won the contest on first preferences as 198,726 votes, which gave him an overall share of 58.2%.

“The re-elected mayor is taking up office at a pivotal time as the economy looks to bounce back from the challenges of COVID, Brexit and climate change.

“It will take commitment and partnership between business and the mayor to turbocharge the region’s recovery. That means establishing a strong economic vision, while championing investment in sustainable infrastructure and the creation of a dynamic, skills-rich workforce.

“CBI members in the North West look forward to continuing to work closely with the mayor to deliver on these regional growth priorities and establish a business environment fit for the future,” Mr Waters said.