The mayors of Manchester and Liverpool are set to visit the University of Sheffield next week as part of their book launch.
Andy Burnham and Steve Rotherham are both visiting The Octagon next Monday to discuss their book ‘Head North’, which details the challenges and experiences they faced before becoming mayors of their respective regions.
Beth Perry, who is chairing the event, said: “I am honoured to chair the debate and I am looking forward to getting stuck into Andy Burnham and Steve Rotherham’s 10 point plan to rewire power in the nations and regions of England.”
A debate will be held between the two leaders and the audience as well as a Q&A surrounding topics such as the potential to redistribute political and economical power across the country.
The event will also delve into how we can make a fairer future for the UK.
Joe Kriss, a director of Opus, who are organising the event, said: “As mayors of two of the biggest cities in the UK, they have a unique insight into the inequality of power between London and other places and the potential benefits that further redistribution and devolution could bring to the whole of the UK.”
Both Burnham and Rotherham have both been long term campaigners towards the redistribution of power towards the north such as holding The Convention of the North when decisions were being made surrounding the HS2 train line.
The event is part of Sheffield’s Festival of Debate, which is in its tenth year and concludes on May 30th.
Perry believes that the event will allow ‘people to really discuss what democracy means, and how we can support it together’
Other names that are involved in the festival include Jeremy Corbyn, Kate Raworth and Jason Hickel.
Kriss said: “Events like these are important as they help build momentum behind ideas that can deliver real change for our communities and neighbourhoods.”
Perry said: “Festivals play a critical role in creating spaces for public debate and engagement with contemporary affairs.
“They are often associated with only fun and frivolity but are also important in building civic capacity and dialogue.”
The event will take place from 18.30-21.00 on Monday the 19th of May.