Andy Burnham is preparing to become Britain's first commuter Prime Minister, intending to split his time between London and his family home in Manchester. However, this plan has encountered a significant obstacle as security experts have raised concerns about securing his residence.
Scotland Yard protection officers reportedly vetoed his four-bedroom, semi-detached house in the North due to its proximity to a public swimming pool, raising questions about his accommodation during his planned one or two days a week in London.
Preparations for his move into Downing Street began on Saturday, with bedding and kitchen equipment being delivered. Burnham is scheduled to be sworn in on Monday, following an audience with King Charles at Buckingham Palace. Upon arrival at No. 10, he will receive a detailed personal security briefing, including protocols for potential terrorist attacks and the procedure for issuing 'letters of last resort' to Trident submarine commanders in the event of a national catastrophe. He will also be tasked with selecting senior aides to join him in a nuclear bunker.
Later on Monday, Burnham is expected to dismiss outgoing Cabinet ministers before appointing their successors under media scrutiny. He will also be introduced to the staff who manage the Prime Minister's residence.
The logistical challenges of a commuter premiership extend beyond personal living arrangements. Sourcing officials willing to relocate to the North and the quality of Wi-Fi on trains between London and Manchester are noted concerns. Civil servants are reportedly compiling lists of staff available for the northern project.
Previous Prime Ministers, including Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak, explored similar ideas of not living full-time at Downing Street but found the demands of the office made it impractical. Starmer's home and car were targeted in an incident last year, and Sunak's Yorkshire home was invaded by activists in 2023.
Burnham would follow in the footsteps of Harold Wilson, who lived near Downing Street rather than in the official residence. The new Prime Minister will also need to navigate the introduction of his rescue dog, Axel, to Larry, the 15-year-old resident cat of No. 10.