There is “no evidence” Andy Burnham is anti-London, Sir Sadiq Khan has said as the new Prime Minister prepares to announce a major devolution drive.
The Mayor of London could have his spending powers significantly boosted amid reports the PM is preparing to hand mayors a share of income tax revenue.
On Friday, Mr Burnham is expected to announced the extra cash for regions to use for local infrastructure, investment, job creation and growth projects.
Commenting on the proposals, Sir Sadiq told the Standard: “Well, I was with Andy Burnham on Friday, and I don't want a telling off for breaching an embargo, but I'm really excited about the direction of travel from the new Prime Minister.
“He's building the progress made by Keir Starmer.
“I think Andy has experienced the frustration when mayors like him, me, and others, know our communities best but rather than us deciding what's best for our communities, civil servants in Whitehall are deciding.
“And by devolving powers and resources, I think we can do better.”
Under extensive devolution plans Mr Burnham will outline greater freedoms for England's 14 regional and metro mayors.
Local leaders are expected to be given a share of income tax revenue but not new tax-raising powers.
Traditionally the Treasury has controlled the distribution of local funding from Westminster.
But this model has been blamed by regional leaders for failing to get money where it is needed most.
Details of the plans remain unclear, including whether there will be any "equalisation" measures in place to ensure that poorer regions outside the capital are not punished by the policy.
The capital contributes about £4 in every £10 the government raises.
But Mr Burnham, the former mayor of Manchester, has previously faced accusations that he is “anti-London” and will distribute money away from the city and into northern areas.
“I've seen no evidence of Andy being anti-London since he's been Prime Minister,” Sir Sadiq told the Standard.
“I’ve had many conversations with him shortly before [and] since he's been Prime Minister, and I'm really hopeful... that parts of the country, including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, should get more devolution, more powers and resources devolved so well.”
