Vulnerable people could receive a basic income if Andy Burnham becomes prime minister.

The Greater Manchester mayor has previously supported the idea of giving cash to those who have been in care.

Payments could be five times what they receive on benefits – despite concerns about the ballooning welfare budget.

In his 2024 manifesto for the mayoralty, Mr Burnham said he wanted to trial a ‘Basic Income pilot’ for vulnerable Manchester residents.

The project he referred to was suggested by Compass, a Left-wing group which previously advocated for a universal basic income, handing cash payments to all citizens regardless of income or work status.

Its executive director is Neal Lawson, a close ally of Mr Burnham who would be expected to play a role in developing policy should he become prime minister.

The project has been backed by politicians such as Green leader Zack Polanski, who argued it would tackle poverty and reduce inequality.

It did not materialise as Mr Burnham did not have the power to sign it off as mayor – but may as PM.

Labour MP Miatta Fahnbulleh – who quit Sir Keir Starmer’s Government in May and is said to be formulating policy for Mr Burnham – has supported a monthly £900 basic income for those in need of it.

Shadow chancellor Sir Mel Stride said: ‘A basic income is a bill for taxpayers and an excuse to not work. 

At a time when Labour cannot even find the money to properly fund our national defence, the last thing we need is more welfare.’

A spokesman for Mr Burnham declined to comment.