Andy Burnham has declared he would take his responsibilities to fund the defence investment plan "extremely seriously" if he were to become prime minister. The plan, which was released this week, proposes a £15 billion increase in defence spending but is expected to leave a £4.7 billion funding gap for the subsequent administration.
Burnham, the Makerfield MP, told LBC that while he had not seen all the plan's details before its publication, he insisted there would be "no compromise on the security of the nation." He also pushed back against criticism of his economic approach, stating he would not be "indisciplined" with public finances. Burnham previously argued that the UK must move beyond reliance on bond markets.
In his first media interview since announcing his bid to lead the Labour party, Burnham pointed to his experience as mayor of Greater Manchester, where he described the finances as "rock solid," and his prior work in the Treasury. Labour's 2024 election manifesto included a promise not to raise taxes on "working people," encompassing National Insurance, income tax, and VAT.
When questioned about adhering to these commitments, Burnham affirmed his support for the manifesto's promises, adding that there was "some room within that manifesto for movement on tax." He suggested potential avenues such as increasing business rates on warehouses and major developments, which could allow for tax reductions for pubs and some high street businesses.
Regarding welfare, Burnham stated he would not implement "crude cuts to benefit levels that just put people who are struggling in even worse poverty." Instead, he aims to reduce the benefits bill by reforming the education system to better support young people pursuing technical qualifications and by facilitating work placements for 16-year-olds. He also expressed a desire to see mental health support made available to those in employment.
Burnham is currently the sole candidate in the race to succeed Sir Keir Starmer and is anticipated to take office on July 20. One of his immediate challenges would be addressing the rising costs of defence spending. Earlier this week, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused Sir Keir of leaving a "mess to his successor" and questioned whether Burnham had committed to covering the shortfall.
Responding to questions about his awareness of the funding gap prior to the defence investment plan's release, Burnham acknowledged he was not privy to all discussions but noted the government had conducted an internal process. "I regard it as something that the country has to face up to very seriously," he said. "We're in a changing world. The nature of the threat is changing. What I can say to you tonight is I will take my responsibilities fully to fund the defence investment plan, if I am in the position to do so, I will take those responsibilities extremely seriously."