New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has used his first address outside Downing Street to vow to end rough sleeping and bring in new measures to give people «breathing space» with the cost of living. Speaking to the nation after formally entering Number 10, the former mayor of Greater Manchester set out an ambitious agenda for his government, promising a ten-year plan to tackle some of the country's most entrenched social problems.
In a speech that sought to strike a tone of optimism and renewal, Burnham declared that this was «the moment Britain starts to believe again». He acknowledged the scale of the challenges facing the country, including the ongoing cost of living crisis, but insisted that his administration would bring a new approach to governance, one focused on practical solutions rather than political posturing.
The new Prime Minister specifically committed to ending rough sleeping, a pledge that builds on his record as mayor of Greater Manchester, where he oversaw a significant reduction in street homelessness. Burnham said that no one in Britain should have to sleep rough and that his government would work with local authorities and charities to make this a reality within the next decade.
On the economy, Burnham promised to set out a comprehensive ten-year plan later this year, which he said would provide long-term stability and growth. He also announced immediate measures aimed at easing the financial pressure on households, describing them as a «breathing space» for families struggling with rising bills and inflation. While he did not provide full details of these measures in the speech, he indicated that they would be a priority for his first days in office.
Burnham's address was notable for its direct and personal tone. He spoke of his own background and his experience as mayor, positioning himself as a leader who understands the realities of people's lives outside the Westminster bubble. He emphasised that his government would be defined by its commitment to public service and its determination to deliver for communities across the United Kingdom.
The speech also touched on broader themes of national renewal and unity. Burnham called for a politics that brings people together rather than dividing them, and he stressed the importance of rebuilding trust in public institutions. He acknowledged that many people feel disillusioned with politics and promised that his government would be transparent, accountable, and focused on results.
Political analysts noted that Burnham's emphasis on ending rough sleeping and tackling the cost of living reflects the priorities that defined his successful mayoralty in Greater Manchester. During his time as mayor, he launched the A Bed Every Night scheme, which provided emergency accommodation for rough sleepers, and he was a vocal critic of austerity policies. His elevation to Prime Minister is seen as a continuation of that approach on a national scale.
The new Prime Minister's first speech was met with a mixed response from opposition parties. Some welcomed the focus on homelessness and cost of living, while others called for more immediate and detailed policy announcements. However, within his own party, there was a sense of optimism and a belief that Burnham's blend of social conscience and practical governance could resonate with voters across the country.
Burnham's journey from mayor to Prime Minister has been swift. He was elected as the first mayor of Greater Manchester in 2017 and was re-elected in 2021 with an increased majority. His national profile grew significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he frequently clashed with the Conservative government over lockdown measures and funding for the region. This period cemented his reputation as a formidable political figure and a potential future leader of the Labour Party.
As he begins his tenure, Burnham faces a daunting in-tray. The cost of living crisis remains acute, with energy bills and food prices continuing to strain household budgets. The National Health Service is under immense pressure, with waiting lists at record highs. And there are ongoing challenges in housing, education, and social care. His ten-year plan will be closely scrutinised to see how it addresses these interconnected issues.
In his closing remarks, Burnham returned to the theme of belief, urging the British people to have faith in the possibility of a better future. «This is not just a new government,» he said. «It is a new beginning. And together, we will build a country that works for everyone.»
