Andy Burnham officially replaced Keir Starmer as Prime Minister today, vowing to "be better" and hinting at a shift towards the left in his first Downing Street address. "We need to be better," Burnham stated, outlining a vision for "stronger public control" over services and a "reindustrialisation" of Britain through a "ten-year plan." He reiterated his view that the country has been on the wrong track since the 1980s, advocating for a "new political model and a new economic model" that devolves power away from Westminster.

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Burnham’s first instruction to officials will be to end rough sleeping. He also announced that measures to address the cost of living crisis would be revealed starting tomorrow, though specific details were not provided. The transition followed an audience with the King at Buckingham Palace, where Burnham was unusually accompanied by his wife, Marie-France van Heel. IMAGE8 Unusually, Mr Burnham was accompanied to meet the King by wife Marie-France van Heel

This new premiership comes as Burnham faces immediate decisions on his Cabinet appointments. Pressure remains from the Labour Left for Ed Miliband to be appointed Chancellor, a move that has raised concerns among businesses and moderates. Speculation suggests Shabana Mahmood may be favored for the role, but any unexpected appointments could trigger market volatility. The positions of prominent Labour figures such as Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting, and Yvette Cooper are also pending.

Meanwhile, prisons minister Lord Timpson announced his resignation, following Sir Keir Starmer’s departure. Starmer, in his farewell address, stated that his "work is done" and that the country is "stronger" following his two-year tenure. He expressed confidence that Britain is now fairer, with improvements in the economy, public services, and a significant decrease in immigration. IMAGE12 Sir Keir earlier gave a farewell address outside the famous black door of No10, just two years after winning an extraordinary General Election landslide IMAGE2 Sir Keir and Lady Victoria got into a car to be driven to Buckingham Palace after his speech

Burnham, who recently returned to Westminster after winning the Makerfield by-election, was installed as leader by Labour MPs without a formal vote. He plans to scrap Sir Keir's digital ID program to reallocate resources towards the cost of living. Burnham also indicated a potential easing of the freeze on the basic rate tax threshold, though funding mechanisms remain unclear. His past support for a "land tax" and criticism of Thatcherite reforms have raised questions about his fiscal policies.

The government has confirmed it will adhere to the Labour manifesto pledge not to issue new oil and gas drilling licenses in the North Sea, though expanded drilling at existing sites like Rosebank and Jackdaw is being considered. This stance may impact relations with figures like Donald Trump, who has advocated for increased drilling.

Burnham also faces a decision regarding the temporary nationalization of Thames Water, which is burdened by a £20 billion debt. He has previously expressed support for increased public control over essential services, and Thames Water's creditors are reportedly open to discussions about a rescue deal. Reforming social care is another stated priority for the new Prime Minister.