Burnham's Power Brokers: Steve Rotheram's Quiet Rise to Influence As Andy Burnham settles into his role as prime minister, attention is turning to those surrounding him – and Steve Rotheram's unique bond with Burnham is drawing scrutiny.
The mayor of Liverpool city region has emerged as a key player in the new Labour government, and their friendship predates their time in politics.
Rotheram and Burnham first met through their mutual involvement in Liverpool's European capital of culture bid in 2008.