A significant majority of UK voters believe that Andy Burnham, who is poised to become prime minister, should call a general election within a year of taking office to secure a mandate for his governance. An exclusive poll conducted by former Conservative deputy chairman Lord Ashcroft found that 59 percent of voters favor Mr. Burnham going to the country within his first year as prime minister, rather than waiting until the end of the current five-year term established by Sir Keir Starmer in 2024. Only 26 percent of those surveyed believe he should wait until 2029.
The poll results emerge amid speculation in Westminster that Mr. Burnham might call a snap election to capitalize on a potential "honeymoon period" after he is set to take over from Sir Keir on July 20. Such a move could allow him to implement his proposed leftist policies with a fresh mandate. The timing could also be influenced by a perceived faltering in support for Nigel Farage's Reform UK party.
This situation draws parallels to that of Gordon Brown in 2007, who took over from Tony Blair and ultimately decided against calling an immediate election, leading to criticism and questions about his administration's legitimacy. The survey also indicated that voters expect Mr. Burnham to adhere to Sir Keir Starmer's manifesto pledge not to raise income tax, National Insurance, or VAT, with 54 percent agreeing he should be bound by these promises, while 21 percent believe he should have the freedom to set his own course.
Regarding leadership, the poll indicated that Mr. Burnham is viewed as the most likely party leader to become prime minister after the next election, with 33 percent of respondents supporting him. Nigel Farage was second with 20 percent, and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch received 6 percent. Mr. Burnham also leads in preferred prime minister ratings, with 38 percent, followed by Ms. Badenoch at 20 percent and Mr. Farage at 17 percent.
Lord Ashcroft commented on the findings, stating, "If change is on the way, how much of it has the country’s consent? I found most voters want an election within a year, if not immediately, though few expect to get one." He added that if Mr. Burnham experiences a "honeymoon" period, he might see it as an opportunity for another term, particularly if Reform UK struggles to regain momentum.
The polling also suggests that voters anticipate higher taxes under a potential Burnham government, with 41 percent viewing his policies as more left-wing than those of Sir Keir Starmer, while 21 percent disagree.