A new poll by More in Common reveals that 59% of Britons do not believe Andy Burnham is ready to become prime minister, despite the public being willing to give him a hearing. The survey, conducted between June 26 and 28 among 2,852 people, shows Burnham with a net favourability of 0%, making him more popular than any other party leader, although 45% of respondents have no opinion about him.
Public Divided on Burnham's Potential
The poll indicates that 27% of voters think Burnham would do a good job in Downing Street, while 25% believe he would not. More in Common's executive director Luke Tryl commented: “Burnham has a higher approval rating than any main party leader, and in focus groups we often hear from voters who say his promise to change politics resonates. However, there is now an expectation and demand that Burnham set out a clear vision of what his government would mean for Britain.”
Comparison with Other Leaders
Despite the doubts, Burnham is seen as more ready for power than either Kemi Badenoch or Nigel Farage. The poll found 62% of voters think Badenoch is not ready, and 66% say the same for Farage. Tryl added: “The figures showed Britons were willing to give Andy Burnham a hearing, but the window for him to turn that rehearing into a reset for the Government is narrow.”
Burnham's Economic Vision
The poll was published shortly after Burnham delivered his first major speech since formally announcing his Labour leadership bid. He pledged a radical “rewiring” of Britain, proposing to transfer power and money from Whitehall to the regions, driven by a new “No10 North” based in Manchester. He also promised to expand public ownership of key utilities, reindustrialise the country, and pursue a major council house building programme. However, he did not provide concrete steps on addressing the cost of living, acknowledging he could not take “risks” with public finances.
Support for Cabinet Changes
Regarding the future cabinet, only 11% of voters think Burnham should keep most current ministers in place for stability, rising to 18% among Labour supporters. Meanwhile, 33% support keeping some ministers, and 36% back changing most. Burnham has declined to discuss potential appointments until the leadership election concludes.
