Burnham Assumes Premiership as Starmer Departs Downing Street
New leader pledges 'breathing room' for households amidst economic shifts, marking a pivotal moment in national politics.
Carla Rooney
Sir Keir Starmer delivered his final address as Prime Minister today, formally transferring leadership to Andy Burnham, who now takes the country's top job.
Burnham will meet with King Charles at Buckingham Palace to receive permission to form a new government, a traditional and essential step in the transition of power.
Sir Keir Starmer delivered his farewell speech, confirming he passed the baton to Burnham. Rachel Reeves, David Lammy, Steve Reed, and Darren Jones stood visible outside Number 10 Downing Street.
He thanked his family, his dedicated team, the staff at Number 10, the civil service, and the British people for the opportunity to serve.
Sir Keir Starmer declared Britain now stands stronger and fairer than it did two years ago. He cited economic improvements and upticks across public services.
He pointed to the biggest fall in waiting times for 17 years and daily progress lifting children out of poverty. Furthermore, he noted a significant reduction in immigration.
Sir Keir Starmer also highlighted a far stronger footing for defence and security. He referenced a greatly advanced international reputation for the UK.
He stated, "Our economy is stronger; our public services are on the up, with the biggest fall in waiting times for 17 years; children are being lifted out of poverty every single day; immigration is down significantly; our defence and security are on a far stronger footing and our international reputation is greatly advanced."
Our economy is stronger; our public services are on the up, with the biggest fall in waiting times for 17 years; children are being lifted out of poverty every single day; immigration is down significantly; our defence and security are on a far stronger footing and our international reputation is greatly advanced.
This leadership change follows a period of notable political volatility. The UK has experienced seven prime ministers in just over 10 years.
This decade of leadership flux created a historical precedent for rapid governmental shifts. Stability often proved elusive.
Andy Burnham's ascent follows his by-election victory in Makerfield last month, marking his return to Parliament.
He plans to immediately address pressing cost-of-living pressures and the ongoing freeze in the tax-free income tax allowance. Public frustration mounted over this policy point.
Burnham stated his approach to economic policy and his broader "10-year plan for the country" stemmed from public frustration over the five-year freeze.
He pledged to offer people "breathing room" amid the escalating cost of living. He called for national "reflection and resolution," vowing to rebuild public trust in government.
Breathing room.
Burnham will deliver his first Downing Street speech without a lectern. This move signals a departure from traditional presentation.
Critics, however, assert Andy Burnham intends to hike taxes, initiating early policy debates. His team sent out a policy document promising a 20% cut in business rates for pubs and music venues, to be covered by higher taxes on warehouses.
Burnham is also expected to scrap plans for digital ID. He will announce plans to imminently start drilling for oil and gas in the North Sea.
Speculation surrounds Burnham's cabinet appointments. Shabana Mahmood is a strong contender for Chancellor, and Yvette Cooper and John Healey are linked to the Home Secretary role.
Meanwhile, Lisa Nandy is a potential candidate for the education secretary position. These appointments will shape the direction of the new government.
Sir Keir Starmer's government faced damage from unpopular policy choices. The fallout from Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to the US also contributed.
Sir Keir Starmer stated his party asked whether he was best placed to lead them into the next general election. He confirmed he will spend more time with his wife and children.
Friends and allies suggest he may eventually pursue international-facing roles or diplomatic policy work. He is a candidate for the role of Nato secretary general.
Sir Keir Starmer could receive an international role in Andy Burnham's new Cabinet. This represents a potential future for the outgoing leader.
A Metropolitan Police ban prevented protesters from playing loud music outside Downing Street during the transition. Metal barriers were erected ahead of the speeches.
Tobias Gough, who first gained public attention during Theresa May's departure in 2019, was present. His appearance drew notice, with one observer on X noting Gough may make a certain US leader very jealous.
Outgoing Prime Ministers under 65 are entitled to a one-off ministerial severance payment. Sir Keir Starmer will earn the standard MP salary of £98,599 per year.