Donald Trump has made his first public comments on Labour MP Andy Burnham, who is the frontrunner to replace Sir Keir Starmer as UK prime minister. The US president branded Burnham as "extremely liberal" and launched a scathing attack on the UK, claiming "the UK is dying."
Trump's Attack on Burnham and the UK
Speaking to journalists at the White House, Trump said of Burnham: "I don't know, I think I see that he was, I guess, the mayor of a town. I hear he's extremely liberal, extremely, so that means he probably won't open up the North Sea" for oil exploration. Trump's comments mark his first public remarks on the Labour leadership contender.
Burnham has previously been critical of Trump, characterising American politics as "polarised" and "poisonous" while campaigning in June 2021. During the January 6 Capitol riot, Burnham posted on X: "Any UK politician who gave Trump the time of day should be ashamed right now."
Burnham's Path to Number 10
Burnham's route to becoming Labour leader appears clear, with few other MPs being mentioned as potential rivals. However, former armed forces minister Al Carns, who stepped down earlier this month amid a dispute over defence spending, remains a possible candidate. Carns has demanded a "proper debate" on the country's future and outlined "tests" for any leadership candidate, including dedicating 3% of GDP to defence, addressing youth unemployment, adding a trillion pounds to UK GDP within the next decade, and enhancing energy infrastructure. Carns concluded: "None of this is complicated."
Economic Pressures and Business Concerns
On Thursday, Burnham will be advised that he must alleviate pressures on businesses for the UK economy to thrive. Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, is poised to tell the group's global annual conference that recent governments have "hobbled" business prospects over the years. Current Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who is widely tipped to be replaced if Burnham becomes prime minister, is also scheduled to address the conference. Burnham is reportedly still mulling over his choice for the role.
Great British Summer Savings Initiative
A temporary VAT reduction aimed at lowering prices at family attractions such as zoos and theme parks, as well as the cost of children's cinema tickets and restaurant meals, is due to come into effect on Thursday. This follows Reeves' announcement of the "Great British Summer Savings" initiative.
