Following Keir Starmer's resignation as the United Kingdom's prime minister, Andy Burnham, the popular Labour politician who just won a seat in parliament in a special election, appears more likely than ever to succeed him. Whether or not this happens, however, the political drama has focused attention on the UK's second city, Manchester, where Mr Burnham served as mayor for nearly a decade.
Known internationally for its football clubs and music scene, Greater Manchester has become the UK's fastest-growing region. Investment has been flowing in, especially to sectors like professional services and technology. Visitors note the buzz of outstanding restaurants, a vibrant art scene, and plenty of construction.
The model that produced this success began coming into focus in 2009, when the Manchester Independent Economic Review panel -- of which I was a member and lead author -- shared the seven analyses it had commissioned with the UK Treasury and then-Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne. Our report emphasised the importance of long-term investment in skills, especially in children's early years, and transport.
