Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch has criticised Prime Minister Andy Burnham's decision to appear on Channel 4's Gogglebox, saying she is "amazed" he has time for the show during a budget week.
Burnham and Mayor of Liverpool Steve Rotheram are set to join regular cast members of the series for a special Stand Up To Cancer episode airing tonight (Friday, October 23). The Prime Minister's appearance comes as part of his longstanding commitment to supporting charities, building on his work as Mayor of Greater Manchester.
Badenoch's Reaction on BBC Breakfast
Speaking on BBC Breakfast this morning, Badenoch was asked by hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt about Burnham's upcoming TV stint. When told that some Conservative members suggested she should join the show, Badenoch replied: "That's not my thing."
She added: "What I'm amazed at is that Andy Burnham has got time to go on Gogglebox. When you get a new job in politics it's so difficult. There's so much to do and it's like drinking from a fire hose."
Prime Minister's Priorities Questioned
Badenoch, who appeared on the BBC programme on Friday morning, continued: "Even as a Junior Minister or Secretary of State, I never had time for Gogglebox. I just don't know how he has the time. There's a budget next week and he's going on Gogglebox."
She referenced previous politicians who appeared on the show, saying: "The last people who did that who I remember is Nigel Farage in 2014 and Jeremy Corbyn did it in 2017 but they weren't Prime Minister but I'm amazed he's got the time."
Badenoch added: "My job is to hold him to account and I've seen a lot of Prime Ministers up close and I've never seen a Prime Minister have the time to do this much Goggleboxing, social media, Lad Bible."
Public Reaction Divided
The announcement of Burnham's appearance has divided viewers online. One fan wrote: "Crikey! Our PM on the best show on the TV. Only the best on Gogglebox. That's impressive. Can't wait to see that episode." Another supporter said: "Good on our PM! Someone who's willing to take time out of his extremely busy schedule to support this great charity."
However, critics voiced opposition, with one person stating: "I won't be watching. I appreciate it's to support cancer charities but I think politicians should just stick to politics." Another added: "Oh what. Gogglebox is ruined for a week."
Badenoch concluded: "When you first become Prime Minister I can't tell you how difficult it is. There's so much to get up to speed on especially when you come in mid-term. He seems like a very nice guy, someone you'd want to hang out with in the park, but it doesn't mean he's doing the job as Prime Minister."
BBC Breakfast airs weekdays on BBC One at 6am, and Gogglebox airs on Fridays at 9pm on Channel 4.
