Andy Burnham is set to deliver his first speech as Prime Minister today, July 20, after being confirmed as the new leader of the Labour Party. The former Greater Manchester mayor will address the nation from outside Downing Street, following Sir Keir Starmer's resignation.
Burnham's Path to Power
Burnham was announced as the new Labour leader at a special party conference on Friday, emerging as the only eligible candidate with 369 endorsements from Labour MPs. Despite being confirmed as party leader last week, he officially becomes Prime Minister today after Starmer's farewell.
Sir Keir Starmer is expected to deliver his final address from Downing Street at around 11:15am, before proceeding to Buckingham Palace to formally resign to King Charles III. After the King accepts the resignation, Burnham will be invited to form a government. He is scheduled to arrive at Downing Street at approximately 12:40pm, with his first speech shortly thereafter.
Starmer's Final Words
During his last appearance at the despatch box in the House of Commons last week, Starmer pledged his "wholehearted support" to Burnham. Asked for advice, Starmer said: "I will give my wholehearted support to my successor. I want this Labour Government to be a success. I want our country to be a success. I shall give my support privately if asked for, not publicly when not asked for."
Burnham's Agenda
Burnham has outlined several key priorities for his premiership, including devolving more power to local leaders, establishing a 'Number 10 in the North' to shift decision-making outside London, launching the 'biggest council house building programme since WW2', and reforming education to create a 'path for everyone' into their desired career.
