UK Voters Want Andy Burnham to Call Snap Election, Poll Finds

Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham should call a general election within a year of taking office to secure a mandate, according to exclusive polling. A clear majority of voters, 59 percent, favor an early election rather than waiting until the end of the current five-year term established in 2024, with only 26 percent preferring he serve the full term.

The poll, conducted by former Conservative deputy chairman Lord Ashcroft and shared with The Mail on Sunday, comes amid speculation in Westminster that Burnham might call a snap election to capitalize on an initial period of public favor after he succeeds Sir Keir Starmer on July 20. Such a move could allow him to implement his intended leftist policies and potentially gain an advantage over Nigel Farage's Reform UK, whose support appears to be faltering.

This situation echoes the dilemma faced by Gordon Brown in 2007, who took over from Tony Blair and ultimately decided against calling an immediate election, leading to public criticism.

The survey also indicates public sentiment regarding pre-election promises. When asked whether Burnham should adhere to Sir Keir's manifesto pledge not to raise income tax, National Insurance, or VAT, 54 percent of respondents said yes. Only 21 percent believe he should have the freedom to alter these tax policies.

Burnham is currently favored as the most likely party leader to become prime minister after the next election, with 33 percent of those polled selecting him. Farage is at 20 percent, and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch is at 6 percent. Burnham also leads in 'best PM' ratings, with 38 percent, followed by Badenoch at 20 percent and Farage at 17 percent.

Voters anticipate higher taxes under a Burnham government, with 41 percent viewing his political stance as more leftist than Sir Keir's, while 21 percent disagree. Lord Ashcroft noted that if significant policy changes are planned, public consent is crucial, suggesting that an early election might be Burnham's best opportunity to win another term, especially if Reform UK struggles to regain momentum.