Exclusive: Greater Manchester mayor ‘serious’ about taking over ‘essentials of life’ if he becomes PM, a move critics say could cost taxpayer billions

A decade-long project to bring water and energy into public control will lie at the heart of Andy Burnham’s agenda should he become prime minister, according to sources close to the Greater Manchester mayor.

Several close allies of Burnham have said he wants to take over broad swathes of UK utilities in an effort to improve performance and potentially reduce bills for consumers.

Environment secretary reportedly raises concerns that customers would face ‘undue burden’ from £10bn plan

• Thames Water should be nationalised, says Burnham

• Business live – latest updates

The UK environment secretary has objected to a £10bn rescue proposal for Thames Water because it would place an “undue burden” on consumers, pushing the troubled utilities firm closer towards public ownership.

Emma Reynolds wrote to the regulator Ofwat on Monday to raise concerns about the plan for the UK’s biggest water company as she is worried that customers will lose out.