Andy Burnham, the newly elected MP for Makerfield and former Greater Manchester mayor, is poised to become the next prime minister after securing over 80% of Labour MPs' public backing. This follows Sir Keir Starmer's resignation last month and Burnham's by-election victory. The nomination window for leadership candidates runs from July 9 to 15, requiring 20% of MPs' support.
Criticism of Donald Trump
Burnham has openly criticized US President Donald Trump, whom he described as bringing 'instability to the world' in a 2024 interview with The London Economic. In his victory speech, Burnham called for 'a new politics based on unity and hope, turning away from the path that takes us to a divided, dark politics of the kind we see in the United States.' Trump had previously labeled Burnham an 'extremely liberal' politician.
Support for Ukraine
In a column for The Times, Burnham affirmed unwavering support for Ukraine, stating, 'Britain’s support for Ukraine will not waver. We recognise that British security and wider Euro-Atlantic security are tied to what happens in Ukraine.' He highlighted his solidarity with Ukrainian mayors Andriy Sadovyi and Vitali Klitschko and pledged to continue standing with the Ukrainian people against Russian aggression.
Apology and Stance on Gaza
Burnham apologized for Labour's initial response to the Gaza conflict, telling The Guardian: 'I know many people feel that at the start of Israel’s military action in Gaza my party didn’t get it right and I am sorry about that.' He called for stronger pressure on the Israeli government and admitted the UK was 'too slow to call for a ceasefire.' However, he stressed that accountability for the destruction of Gaza should be determined by international courts, not politicians.
National Security Priorities
Burnham outlined national security as his 'first priority,' citing growing Russian aggression, Middle East conflict, climate and energy insecurity, and technological threats. He affirmed an 'absolute' commitment to NATO and the UK's nuclear deterrent, and pledged to strengthen UK-EU cooperation on illegal migration, economic security, and resilience against external threats such as terrorism and AI-driven disinformation.
