Outside Downing Street, Britain's new prime minister struck the right notes. Now he and his cabinet need to be brave.
Burnham's Vision
In a speech delivered without lectern or notes, Andy Burnham said that corrosive imbalances of wealth, power and status must be challenged through a 'circuit-breaker' administration – one that truly empowers places like his own Makerfield constituency, and eases the cost of living by introducing greater public control over economic essentials. This vision challenges the political and economic assumptions of the last 40 years and can give hope to millions of voters alienated by missteps and misplaced priorities over the last two years under Sir Keir Starmer.
Cabinet Choices
The decision to choose John Healey rather than Ed Miliband to replace Rachel Reeves as chancellor is disappointing. John Healey is an astute politician and popular with the trade unions, but Ed Miliband's authority, experience and reforming zeal made him best placed to drive the economic agenda. The appointment of Louise Haigh as chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster and first secretary of state confirms her status as chief powerbroker.
Challenges Ahead
Mr Burnham's striking pledge to end rough sleeping may be a hostage to fortune, as he could only partially deliver on the same commitment as mayor of Greater Manchester. To enact his plans will mean governing differently and confronting resistance in Whitehall, especially the Treasury. The political window for impact is short, and much will depend on relations between the Treasury and No 10 North in Manchester.
