Prime Minister Andy Burnham has drawn criticism for his use of government aircraft for domestic travel. On Monday, flight records indicate a government plane departed Manchester Airport at 10:49 a.m. and landed at Southampton Airport at 11:26 a.m., a journey of 37 minutes. Burnham subsequently met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the nearby Portsmouth Naval Base.
This trip followed another flight on Friday morning, when Burnham traveled from Glasgow to Manchester, a 38-minute journey, to open his 'No10 North' office in Manchester. This office is intended to symbolize a devolution of power from Westminster. The Prime Minister's use of government planes for these short domestic trips has led to accusations of hypocrisy, particularly from the Conservative party, whose own ministers previously criticized such practices when in opposition.
During the meeting with President Zelensky in Portsmouth, Burnham reiterated Britain's commitment to supporting Ukraine. "Ukraine could count on Britain 'for as long as it takes'," he stated. Burnham also announced that the UK would transfer the intellectual property for its 'Stone Cloak' electronic warfare system to Ukraine, allowing for scaled production of the technology. The tablet-sized device is designed to block Russian detection of drones.
"Volodymyr, you are the first leader I have welcomed in person since taking office, and that is no accident," Burnham told reporters. "It is intended to send a very clear message: we are with Ukraine 100 per cent, I am personally with you 100 per cent, and I will honour every commitment this country has made to Ukraine in full."
President Zelensky expressed gratitude for the UK's commitment, stating that the relationship between the two countries is "stronger than ever" and that Burnham assured him of unwavering support. He noted that his team's visit was the first to the UK since Burnham took office, calling it an important signal of support.
Conservative chairman Kevin Hollinrake criticized Burnham's travel choices, highlighting the perceived hypocrisy given that ministers in Burnham's cabinet had previously attacked Conservative prime ministers for similar use of RAF jets. Hollinrake also pointed out that Burnham's Energy Secretary, Miatta Fahnbulleh, has advocated for increased taxes on flying.
A government spokesperson defended the Prime Minister's travel, stating that "appropriate transport is used where necessary to meet operational, security and scheduling requirements." The spokesperson added that the Prime Minister has a duty to conduct government business across the United Kingdom.
