Andy Burnham, officially confirmed as the new leader of the Labour Party, has stated he will announce his Cabinet on Monday, arguing that revealing ministerial appointments before he enters No 10 would cause “complete chaos.” The former mayor of Greater Manchester and newly elected Makerfield MP made the remarks while speaking to Labour activists in Gravesend, Kent.
Burnham Defends Timing of Cabinet Announcement
When asked why he had not yet decided on his top team, Burnham explained: “Because you do that when you do take over. You make those decisions, and it would be somewhat premature and would I think cause complete chaos if you start half a reshuffle before you’re in the position.” He added that he is finalising decisions and will announce them on Monday, calling it “the orderly way to do it.”
On the question of who would be his Chancellor, Burnham said: “I am finalising those decisions, and I will come to conclusions very shortly, and then I will announce those on Monday.” He dismissed speculation as premature, insisting he is “not in the job yet” but will act properly when he is.
No 10 North for All Regions
Burnham sought to allay concerns that his planned “No 10 North” outpost in Manchester would only benefit the North. He asserted: “No 10 North will be as much for Gravesend as it will be for Makerfield, and we want to get the power into your hands.” The new Labour leader emphasised that the office aims to make all parts of the UK “feel that they’ve got the power that they need to get on and make changes to the lives of their residents.”
Praising Starmer’s Legacy and Promising More Change
Burnham praised Sir Keir Starmer’s legacy, noting achievements such as bringing NHS waiting lists down, improving workers’ and renters’ rights, rail renationalisation, and the recent Hillsborough law. He stated: “Sir Keir leaves a legacy of a country that will be about justice and fairness going forward, and that is a huge thing, but we’ve got much more change to bring.”
He also highlighted that Labour has already brought change, including reducing NHS waiting lists, which had been “going in the wrong direction since I was the health secretary a long time ago.”
Commitment to Stay Grounded
Burnham told supporters he would not let his new role change him, vowing to remain “on the ground” and “close to people.” He said: “I will put us back in touch with ordinary people. I will give it my all to support all of you here in Kent to make sure Labour connects with people here.” He is expected to become prime minister next week.
