Labour has increased the Council Tax, doubled the number of senior officials, and seen Children’s Services go from “outstanding“ to being placed in special measures.
Elsewhere, the Conservatives snatch Teesside and gain the West of England in a fine day for the Party. And Burnham wins big for Labour in Manchester.
Will Andy Street adorn the front pages with a broad grin on his face, the newly-elected Conservative West Midlands Mayor?
George Osborne’s project, though mocked by some, is already changing the politics of the North, by recruiting influential Labour politicians.
How the Chancellor used Manchester as his starting-point of his Northern Powerhouse plan for urban revival and election success.
Its City Deal is an example of what our Government is doing to create and reinforce a virtuous circle of investment, success and prosperity in our urban areas.
Our city lags behind the UK average in unemployment and productivity. The new mayor must use City Hall’s new levers to make it more competitive.