Burnham vows to 'fix the big things' as he prepares to become PM

Andy Burnham will promise to "fix the big things that politics has neglected" as he prepares to take over as Labour leader and Britain's next prime minister, pledging to shift power away from Westminster and deliver economic growth across the country.

Burnham is expected to be formally confirmed as Labour leader on Friday before succeeding Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street on Monday, ushering in what allies say will be a new chapter for the party after two difficult years in government.

A promise of a fresh start

In his first leadership speech, Burnham is expected to argue that Britain needs a new political direction after decades of centralised government and uneven economic growth.

He will promise to return power to local communities, revive industry and pursue what he describes as an "authentically Labour" programme focused on economic renewal, public control of key services and spreading prosperity beyond London and the South East.

Burnham is expected to tell supporters Labour must give people hope that Britain can once again become "the best it can be."

Distancing himself from the Starmer years

Without directly criticising his predecessor, Burnham is expected to signal a change in style and priorities.

He has promised a more collegiate approach to leadership, saying he wants to work more closely with Labour MPs and local leaders after criticism that decision-making under Starmer became too centralised.

However, some MPs have already expressed frustration after learning that only a limited number of parliamentary colleagues will be allowed to attend Friday's leadership conference, with others required to apply for places at a later meeting.

Cabinet speculation grows

Westminster is awash with speculation over Burnham's first Cabinet, although the final line-up remains closely guarded.

The new prime minister is expected to unveil his senior ministerial team on Monday after formally entering Downing Street.

Despite promises of change, many of Starmer's senior advisers are expected to remain in key government positions, providing continuity as Burnham begins implementing his agenda.

Among those expected to stay are National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell, business adviser Varun Chandra and senior policy adviser Graeme Cooke.

Several new appointments have also been made, including former Labour minister James Purnell as chief of staff and Hayden Munro as political director.

Radical policies expected

Burnham's allies say his government will move quickly to announce a series of major policy initiatives during its first week in office.

Among the measures reportedly under consideration are greater public ownership of England's water industry, including possible nationalisation or mutual ownership models for companies such as Thames Water.

The government is also expected to unveil measures aimed at tackling the cost-of-living crisis, with reports suggesting ministers are examining options including a freeze on private sector rents and further action to reduce housing costs.

Balancing Labour values with business confidence

While Burnham has promised more intervention in the economy, he also faces pressure to reassure businesses and financial markets.

Business groups have welcomed the decision to retain several experienced advisers inside Number 10, viewing it as a sign that economic stability will remain a priority.

At the same time, reports suggest Burnham may adopt a more pragmatic approach to North Sea oil and gas production than some on Labour's left would prefer.

Although he is expected to honour Labour's pledge not to issue new exploration licences, existing developments such as the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields could still proceed if they satisfy environmental and legal requirements.

Calls for change – but questions remain

Supporters argue Burnham's leadership offers Labour an opportunity to reconnect with voters after a difficult period in office.

Critics, however, question how different his government will really be if many of the senior advisers and officials from the Starmer administration remain in place.

One Labour insider described the emerging Downing Street team as "Continuity Keir," suggesting the personnel may not match Burnham's promises of radical change.

Whether Burnham can successfully combine continuity with the political reset he is promising is likely to become clear within days of entering Number 10.

SOURCE