King Charles has completed another major political transition. The monarch welcomed Andy Burnham to Buckingham Palace before the Labour leader began his work as the United Kingdom’s new prime minister.
King Charles officially welcomed Andy Burnham to Buckingham Palace after he became the UK’s new prime minister
According to PEOPLE, King Charles met Andy Burnham at Buckingham Palace on Monday, July 20, as Britain completed its latest change of government. The Royal Family confirmed that Burnham accepted the King’s offer to form a government and became Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury.
The meeting took place after Keir Starmer’s final official meeting with the King. Starmer formally tendered his resignation, which Charles accepted, before leaving the palace and ending his two-year premiership.
Starmer had already announced his decision to step down in June. In his final Downing Street speech, he declared, “My work is done,” and said Britain had become “stronger and fairer” during his time in office. He also wished Burnham “every success” and offered him his full support.
Burnham’s arrival marks the fourth premiership of King Charles’ reign. Liz Truss remained in office when Charles became monarch in September 2022. Rishi Sunak, Starmer, and now Burnham followed during a period of unusually rapid political turnover.
The new prime minister returned to Parliament in June 2026 after serving as Mayor of Greater Manchester. Labour elected him as its leader on July 16, clearing the way for his appointment without another general election.
Burnham later addressed the country outside 10 Downing Street. He promised a new political and economic direction, said his government would work to restore hope, and announced an immediate drive to end rough sleeping.
His move into Downing Street also brings earlier policy promises back into focus. Burnham previously outlined a major council housing program designed to create affordable homes, support communities, and reduce pressure on public finances.
The Buckingham Palace meeting lasted only a short time, but it carried major constitutional weight. Charles formally completed the transfer of power, while Burnham began a premiership that could reshape Labour’s direction after Starmer’s departure.
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Originally reported by Misbah Pandith on Mandatory
