Andy Burnham has been confirmed as the new Labour leader and will take over as UK prime minister on Monday, promising a new direction for the country.
Speaking at a special Labour conference in central London, Burnham is expected to say his government will be “unashamedly Labour in our priorities” and will have the “courage to fix the big things that politics has neglected”.
The Makerfield MP became the only leadership candidate after receiving the backing of 379 Labour MPs and most trade unions linked to the party.
Focus on economy and devolution
In his first speech as Labour leader, Burnham is expected to highlight his long-standing devolution agenda, promising to represent all parts of the UK, including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
He will argue that making the economy work for people across the country requires a “new path” after four decades of previous approaches.
Burnham is expected to outline a distinctly Labour economic programme, including greater public control of utilities such as water and a focus on reindustrialisation.
Cabinet decisions ahead
Burnham has provided limited details about his full policy plans, with cabinet appointments expected after he officially takes office on Monday.
Reports have suggested that Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood could be his choice for chancellor, although discussions are ongoing.
Mahmood, as chair of Labour’s ruling National Executive Committee, will formally announce Burnham as party leader at the conference.
Questions over policies and scrutiny
Burnham’s rise comes after former leader Sir Keir Starmer resigned last month, saying he was not the best person to lead Labour into the next general election.
The party had suffered heavy losses in local elections before Burnham’s by-election victory in Makerfield increased pressure on Starmer to step aside.
However, some Labour MPs have questioned Burnham’s unopposed path to leadership, saying more detail is needed on his plans.
Labour MP Graham Stringer said several major policies remained unclear and argued that the leadership process had effectively given Burnham a “blank cheque”.
Burnham has also faced criticism over limited media appearances since announcing his leadership bid.
Priorities include social care and living costs
Burnham has said social care will be one of his key priorities in government, citing his family’s experience with the system.
He is also expected to focus on reducing pressure on households facing rising living costs while maintaining what he described as responsible economic management.
The International Monetary Fund has warned the incoming government to remain cautious with public spending and focus on economic growth rather than increasing overall expenditure.
Burnham plans to begin his premiership with a UK-wide listening tour during Parliament’s summer recess.
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