The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Andy Burnham, reiterated this Friday his rejection of a new independence process in Scotland and lamented that, in his opinion, "too much time is wasted on dramas" while the Scottish National Party (SNP) maintains pressure to hold another referendum.
During a speech delivered as part of his visit to Scotland, he emphasized that "the population of Scotland is suffering from the crisis posed by the increase in the cost of living, just as is happening in England and elsewhere" and that "I believe our job is to focus on practical aspects, on finding solutions for the people."
In this line, he warned that "right now, too much time is being wasted on those dramas. They consume too much energy," referring to the debate on independence, before alerting that "if we do not act now, Scotland could end up losing," according to information gathered by the newspaper 'The Guardian.'
Referring to a possible decentralization, Burnham explained that he is putting a "serious and genuine offer" on the table to the Scottish Government, in order to transfer more decision-making power "into the hands of the local population."
He defended that "we must analyze resources and competencies when making decisions at the regional level in Scotland to ensure that no area is left behind. I know the Scottish Government has announced a long-term program for local government reform, but, in my opinion, we must move faster."
As he warned, "there is a risk that some towns and cities lose capacity, while others, in the north of England, are following the opposite path and starting to gain strength. As Prime Minister, I do not want that to happen."
Burnham insisted that he has come to Scotland "with a great proposal" and reiterated his willingness to "empower people and territories, so they can change things for themselves." He also emphasized: "I have a great appreciation for Scotland; today I come with an important proposal and with the aim of finding points of agreement."
He recalled that "when I arrived at Downing Street in July, I said I wanted to do politics differently. Putting place before party interests. Honestly, I was serious, and I maintain that spirit, because, in my opinion, the people of Scotland deserve better from politicians and politics."
Burnham has also pointed out: "I want to demonstrate that politics can improve and that it is possible to work in a different way," while acknowledging that the First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, "has a different opinion" on the independence issue.
Regarding the celebration of a second referendum in Scotland, he has argued that "union is preferable because it allows us to face a complex world with greater confidence and strength thanks to collaboration and joint work" and has added: "That is my position and I have communicated it clearly to the First Minister."
He has acknowledged that "he has a different opinion; let us accept that there are different viewpoints and focus on working together on what we can agree on. My position is not going to change, but let us advance in areas where it is possible to make progress."