The Labour Party, Andy Burnham has been confirmed as its new leader following a special conference in London. He is poised to take on the role of Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on Monday, 20 July 2026. Burnham, who ran unopposed to succeed Keir Starmer, garnered overwhelming support, securing 379 out of 403 Labour lawmakers along with significant backing from affiliated trade unions.
In his acceptance speech, Burnham expressed gratitude for the support he received, particularly from the socialist societies and local trade unions. “What a moment! All our affiliated trade unions, all our socialist societies, and 379 of our MPs. I don’t need to say commiserations to Catherine West, because she backed me too,” he remarked. He emphasised the need to respond to the call from communities like Makerfield, stating, “We will be that version of Labour again.” Burnham highlighted the party’s unity and commitment to restoring hope for those who have long awaited political change.
Burnham’s ascension follows intense internal pressures within the party and a challenging set of local elections in May, which prompted Keir Starmer to announce his resignation. Burnham, previously the Mayor of Greater Manchester from 2017 to 2026, made a significant return to Westminster by winning a crucial by-election in Makerfield, a seat heavily contested by Reform UK. His victory reassured Labour MPs of his broad appeal and ability to safeguard their majorities, leading to a swift and unopposed leadership bid.
In outlining his key priorities for his upcoming premiership, Burnham has committed to several significant reforms.
He aims for decentralisation, advocating for a substantial transfer of power away from Whitehall. This initiative includes establishing a “No 10 North” office in Manchester to enhance regional development and ensure that local voices are heard and prioritized in national policy-making.
Burnham is also focused on public control and housing. He plans to empower local councils with greater authority to oversee the construction of social housing and manage regional public transport systems. This shift is intended to address the pressing needs of communities and improve living conditions across the country.
he has pledged to undertake a comprehensive reform of social care. Burnham recognises the challenges facing the UK’s social care system and has vowed to dedicate significant political capital to overhaul it, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need.
And in terms of fiscal strategy, Burnham intends to stick to the core pledges outlined in the 2024 manifesto. He has committed to not raising income tax, VAT, or National Insurance while adopting a disciplined approach to public spending, especially in light of early warnings from the International Monetary Fund regarding fiscal responsibility.
These priorities reflect Burnham’s vision for a Labour government that is responsive to the needs of its constituents and committed to rebuilding trust in politics.
Burnham’s official ceremony to assume the role of Prime Minister will take place on Monday, 20 July 2026, following an audience with King Charles III at Buckingham Palace. This event, known as the “kissing of hands,” will mark the formal invitation for Burnham to form a government.
