Andy Burnham has been confirmed as the new leader of the Labour Party, pledging to end factional infighting and lead a unified government. In a speech at a special party conference in London, he promised a distinctly leftwing vision for Britain, including reversing Thatcherism, increasing public ownership of utilities, and building new council homes. He also described the election as the 'last chance' for Labour to get things right and called for unity to 'beat Britain’s new right'.
Burnham, who will become prime minister on Monday, insisted he would be 'pro-business', reflecting his approach as mayor of Greater Manchester. He defended delaying cabinet appointments, stating it would be 'chaos' to announce them before entering No 10. However, tensions are already surfacing over the choice of chancellor, with Shabana Mahmood emerging as the frontrunner over the left’s preferred candidate, Ed Miliband.
Labour sources indicated that Jonathan Reynolds could take over a larger business department, while Wes Streeting is a candidate for defence secretary. Angela Rayner is tipped for health secretary to tackle social care, and a 'big beast' is being lined up for foreign secretary. Burnham will begin moving into No 10 this weekend, with a speech on the Downing Street steps on Monday outlining his vision.
Several trade unions welcomed Burnham’s confirmation but urged change. Unison said he 'must get this right', while Usdaw called for his vision to be translated into action. Burnham won overwhelming support from MPs, unions, and party branches, making him the sole candidate to succeed Keir Starmer.
