Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, faces scrutiny regarding his past support for tax increases as he positions himself as a potential successor to Labour leader Keir Starmer. Burnham has suggested raising the top income tax rate and local taxes on expensive properties to fund an ambitious policy agenda, raising questions about fiscal discipline and potential tax hikes under his leadership.

• 01Burnham has expressed support for raising the top income tax rate to 50% and local taxes on expensive homes.
• 02His proposals come as he aims to succeed Keir Starmer amid calls for leadership change within the Labour Party.
• 03Burnham's spokesperson has not committed to Labour's previous pledges against broad-based tax hikes, fueling speculation about future tax increases.
• 04The International Monetary Fund warns that the UK is nearing the limits of taxation without significant reform, with the current tax burden at 37% of GDP.
• 05A proposed 5% increase in income tax for the highest earners could generate about £1.3 billion ($1.6 billion) annually.

If Burnham's proposed tax increases are implemented, residents in Greater Manchester and wealthy property owners could see significant changes in their tax liabilities.