Prime Minister Andy Burnham utilized a government jet for a 37-minute journey to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Portsmouth, a trip that followed a similar 38-minute flight to open his 'No10 North' office in Manchester just days prior. Flight records indicate the plane departed Manchester Airport on Monday morning, arriving in Southampton before the meeting.
Burnham's use of government aircraft for domestic travel has prompted criticism, with political opponents highlighting past condemnations of such practices by members of his own party when they were in opposition. The Prime Minister's decision to fly comes after his administration established a Downing Street office in Manchester, intended to symbolize a devolution of power from Westminster.
During the meeting with President Zelensky, Burnham reiterated Britain's commitment to supporting Ukraine, stating the nation could count on the UK "for as long as it takes." He also announced that the UK would transfer the intellectual property rights for its 'Stone Cloak' electronic warfare system to Ukraine, enabling the country to produce the technology domestically. This system is designed to block Russian drone detection and has already seen thousands of units provided to Ukrainian forces.
Zelensky expressed gratitude for the support, noting that his team's visit was the first to the UK since Burnham took office and signaling an important gesture of solidarity. "The PM assured us that this support remains unwavering," Zelensky stated.
In response to the criticism regarding his travel, a government spokesperson defended the Prime Minister's actions, stating that "appropriate transport is used where necessary to meet operational, security and scheduling requirements," a practice consistent with previous administrations. The spokesperson emphasized Burnham's duty to conduct government business across the United Kingdom.