Prime Minister Andy Burnham's government will continue to operate normally during his holiday, according to Downing Street. Burnham, who entered office two weeks ago, is taking a break to spend time with his family. His official spokesman confirmed he will maintain direct contact with officials and continue to hold meetings remotely while away.
However, the decision has drawn criticism from Reform UK's chairman, Lee Anderson. Anderson stated that this indicates a lack of seriousness about leadership, accusing the prime minister of "bunking off" after recent policy announcements and issues related to illegal immigration. He referenced a series of policy initiatives, including a VAT cut on household electricity bills, business rate reductions for pubs, the reinstatement of a £2 bus fare cap in England, and initial cross-party discussions on social care reform, all of which occurred within Burnham's first two weeks.
Justice Secretary Alex Norris defended Burnham's decision, telling Sky News that the prime minister is having a brief family holiday and will remain in constant contact. Norris indicated he has spoken with Burnham virtually every day since joining the cabinet and expects this to continue. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, while not directly criticizing the holiday itself, suggested that Burnham should have recalled Parliament after becoming prime minister to face legislative scrutiny. She expressed that she would not grant him a holiday from parliamentary duties when it reconvenes in September.
Burnham's holiday follows a period of significant policy activity. In addition to domestic initiatives, he has established a "No 10 North" base in Manchester and proposed allocating a share of income tax to English city mayors in exchange for central government grant funding. His most recent public appearance was over the weekend in Dover, Kent, where he pledged to take a firm stance against the arrival of individuals in the UK via small boats.