Andy Burnham has opened his premiership with promises to change Britain. The new UK prime minister used his first Downing Street address to set a direction.
Andy Burnham outlines sweeping reforms and a new agenda for Britain
According to the official Downing Street transcript, Andy Burnham’s first speech as prime minister called for a “circuit breaker for Britain.” Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on July 20, he acknowledged the public’s political frustration and said leaders needed to improve.
Burnham promised Britain’s biggest political changes in 40 years. He wants to transfer power from Westminster to local communities. He also proposed greater public control over essential services, a renewed industrial strategy and government purchasing policies that support British businesses.
The prime minister said he would publish a 10-year national plan later this year. Before then, he plans to announce cost-of-living measures on July 21 and explain how his government will fund them.
Housing formed a major part of the Andy Burnham speech. After proposing a major council housing program, he renewed his promise to build more council homes. He connected that effort to lower welfare spending, stronger communities and Britain’s fiscal and defense commitments.
Burnham also promised to reform education, help more young people find jobs, and expand mental health support. His government plans to invest in people earlier, before personal struggles develop into larger and more expensive crises.
His first order focused on rough sleeping. In a separate announcement, Downing Street pledged an additional £340 million for 1,200 homes and intensive support for at least 3,000 people. Local leaders, councils, the NHS and other public services will carry out the program.
Burnham entered Downing Street after King Charles invited him to form a government at Buckingham Palace. He replaced Keir Starmer, whose resignation ended a two-year premiership, continuing King Charles’ unusually rapid prime minister turnover.
The new U.K. prime minister ended his speech by asking the country to unite around a common purpose and a more positive future. Funding, legislation and delivery will now test his promises.
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