Jayne Dowle

Jayne Dowle argues that Andy Burnham should be more careful when describing his experience of imposter syndrome before attending Cambridge. Although his comments aim to reassure students, she believes references to feeling out of place and needing a drink before his interview could discourage capable state-school pupils from applying to elite universities. Drawing on her own positive experience at Oxford as a working-class student from Barnsley, Dowle maintains that social background need not prevent academic success or belonging. She also criticizes Education Secretary Lucy Powell’s account of leaving Oxford after feeling like a “fish out of water,” arguing that politicians should emphasize opportunity and inclusion rather than suggesting elite universities are socially alien environments.

Jayne Dowle argues that giving local councils greater power to reject vape shops, betting shops and other unsuitable businesses will not revive struggling high streets unless the government also helps independent retailers, cafés and hospitality businesses replace them. She criticizes Labour’s minimum-wage, employer National Insurance and zero-hours-contract policies for adding to small firms’ costs, while noting that rising energy bills and falling consumer spending are already forcing businesses to close. Although she acknowledges the Conservatives’ failure to prevent high-street decline, she says Labour has yet to offer a credible plan for filling vacant premises with sustainable community businesses.

Andy Burnham’s criticism of the inadequate transport links between Sheffield and Manchester is welcomed after he experienced the difficult routes himself. The Snake Pass and Woodhead Pass are described as dangerous, congested and frequently disrupted by weather, roadworks and deterioration, while rail journeys are slow and the direct Sheffield–Manchester Airport service has ended. The planned £228 million Mottram Bypass offers limited relief, but the column argues that broader, long-term investment—including improved roads or renewed rail connections—is needed to unite the two northern cities.