Prime Minister Andy Burnham has faced criticism from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage for taking a holiday less than three weeks into his new job. In an interview with the Express, Farage said that going on holiday after just a fortnight was 'horrible' given the country's financial situation. However, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch defended the break, saying 'everybody should be taking a break' during school holidays.
Farage's Summer Campaign
Farage has been busy campaigning in Clacton ahead of the by-election on August 13, where he is expected to win. Despite the predicted victory, he is taking nothing for granted, working hard to engage with voters and lead his team of activists. The by-election has become the main political story of the summer, with Parliament in recess and the new government still settling in.
Upcoming Political Events
Parliament returns on September 1, with Burnham likely to face questions in the Commons the following day. The party conference season begins with Reform's event in Birmingham on September 3, featuring Farage's speech on September 4. Conferences for the Liberal Democrats, Labour, Greens, and Conservatives will follow, ending with the Tories' conference in Birmingham on October 7.
Journalists, business leaders, and think tank experts will attend these events, which are filled with speeches and receptions. The season is expected to be exhausting, but it will mark the resumption of political battles after the summer lull.
