Andy Burnham was sworn in as the United Kingdom's seventh prime minister in a decade on Monday, taking office with a pledge to implement a "new political model" and shift authority away from London.
Burnham, the leader of the Labour Party, addressed the nation outside 10 Downing Street, outlining his vision for a more collaborative approach to governance focused on problem-solving. He stated his intention to "take power out of here and carry it into every postcode in the land" to empower local communities.
"We will make this moment a circuit breaker for Britain, bringing forward the biggest changes in the last 40 years," Burnham said. "A new political model and a new economic model."
He succeeded Sir Keir Starmer, who officially resigned as prime minister. Starmer remarked, "As I now pass the baton to Andy Burnham, I wish him every success. He has my full support."
Burnham, 56, was formally invited to form a new administration by King Charles III at Buckingham Palace before his public remarks. He acknowledged the frequent change in leadership over the past decade, stating, "I am acutely conscious that I am the sixth person in the last 10 years to walk up this street: The seventh Prime Minister since 2016, making this a moment for reflection and new resolution."
His agenda includes what he terms "Manchesterism," an initiative to grant cities and regions greater control over transportation, housing, infrastructure, and economic development. This is to be combined with "business-friendly socialism," aiming for increased public control of essential services while fostering cooperation between government and the private sector.
Burnham's political ascent follows a period outside national politics. After losing a Labour leadership contest in 2015, he established a power base in Greater Manchester, serving as mayor for nine years, where he gained a reputation as an effective communicator. He was unopposed in his recent bid for the Labour leadership.
Regarding foreign policy, Burnham has been a vocal critic of former U.S. President Donald Trump. He has drawn parallels between the instability surrounding Trump's political career and the turmoil experienced under former British Prime Minister Liz Truss, warning against the adoption of polarized political cultures. However, he pledged continuity in key areas of international relations, including support for NATO, Britain's nuclear deterrent, and aid to Ukraine. Trump had previously dismissed Burnham, referring to him as the "mayor of a town" and characterizing him as "extremely liberal."
Burnham enters office without a general election, as permitted by Britain's parliamentary system when a governing party changes leaders mid-term. The next general election is not constitutionally mandated until 2029, though Burnham has the option to call an earlier vote.