Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has drawn significant criticism after boasting about implementing the highest taxes among regional mayors. His mayoral precept has risen from £76 in 2019 to £154 in 2023, a 19.4% increase that has led to comparisons with the tyrannical 'Sheriff of Nottingham'. Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon accused Burnham of being proud of raising taxes without delivering tangible benefits to taxpayers. Burnham has not ruled out increasing the top rate of income tax to 50p and has suggested a debate on introducing a land value tax. He also expressed dissatisfaction with Labour's 2024 general election manifesto, calling it too restrictive regarding tax policies. Additionally, Burnham's recent cancellation of a planned call with hedge fund managers has raised eyebrows, especially after he previously suggested the government should reduce its reliance on bond markets. As Burnham campaigns for the Makerfield by-election, concerns about his tax policies and economic strategies continue to grow.