Great Britain faces significant economic challenges, including high youth unemployment, stagnating wages, and a rising deficit. In response, Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced in July 2026 the opening of "No. 10 North," a government office located at Heron House, a refurbished 1980s office block in Manchester where Burnham previously served as mayor for nearly a decade.

The government press release described No. 10 North as "the government's new situation room for growth," with Burnham stating it aims "to get power out of Westminster," the political center of Britain. In an interview with The Times, Burnham said the office will take over responsibility for economic growth, calling it "a huge transfer of power" to unlock blockages in the governmental system.

However, a Freedom of Information request filed by Reason revealed that setting up No. 10 North has already cost taxpayers significant sums. Expenses include £10,527.20 (over $14,300) for physically branding the office, £1,768.43 (about $2,400) on crockery, and £978.87 (more than $1,300) for moving a replica Downing Street door to Manchester.

Additionally, the office's director general has been accused of "wasting taxpayer money," reportedly spending £800 (approximately $1,091) per week on a "200-mile weekly commute to Manchester" from London, according to LBC News.

Critics argue that the government's plan for economic growth largely involves relocating meetings that would otherwise occur in London, raising questions about the office's practical impact.

Caroline Simpson, deputy chief of staff at the office, provided comments to Politico, though specific details of her statements were not disclosed.

Sources