Andy Burnham will deliver his first major leadership speech on Monday, aiming to outline a vision for Britain that involves a significant transfer of power away from Westminster. Speaking at the People's History Museum in Manchester, the MP for Makerfield is expected to argue that Britain needs a "circuit breaker" and propose measures to "lift Britain back up to where it should be."

Burnham's team describes the speech as a foundational text for his programme for government, signaling a broad approach to his political platform. The emphasis on decentralization stems from his experiences as former Mayor of Greater Manchester, where he encountered resistance from Whitehall to devolution efforts. His plan seeks to empower politicians beyond the capital, aiming for the largest transfer of power out of Whitehall in modern times, though likely not as significant as the establishment of devolved assemblies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, or regional mayors in England.

A key proposal is the creation of a "No10 North," a satellite operation of the Prime Minister's office based in Manchester. This unit would be tasked with driving devolution and promoting "good growth" across the entire UK, with assurances that it would not exclusively favor the north of England, but would also consider the needs of other English regions, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Burnham also plans to advocate for "public control" over key sectors like energy, water, and transport. However, a central point of contention is expected to be the level of detail he provides regarding the implementation of these policies, the proposed timescale, and the extent of state intervention, including how close it might resemble nationalization.

Following the speech, Burnham is not expected to take questions from reporters, a move that may draw criticism given his current lack of a public mandate. His team maintains this is a strategic choice for the initial launch and not indicative of a pattern of avoiding scrutiny, suggesting that engagement with the press will increase later in the campaign.

The Conservative Party Chairman, Kevin Hollinrake, has criticized Burnham's proposals, characterizing them as a "shuffle of power between politicians" that distracts from more pressing issues. Hollinrake argued that Burnham's focus on devolution neglects the welfare system, tax cuts for families and businesses, and national defense needs, labeling it "the politics of distraction."

As Burnham sketches out his vision, his team is reportedly deliberating on key cabinet appointments. A significant internal discussion revolves around whether to appoint Energy Secretary Ed Miliband as Chancellor. Allies suggest Miliband possesses a clear political vision and the necessary experience for the Treasury role, though no offers have been made yet.

This period presents a central dilemma for Burnham as he continues to build his leadership platform and team. The coming weeks will likely see further elaboration on his policy proposals and the individuals he intends to place in key positions, as he attempts to address the significant questions surrounding the feasibility and impact of his vision.