Andy Burnham was crowned Labour leader at an event in the basement of Congress House, the headquarters of the Trades Union Congress, surrounded by party grandees including Neil Kinnock, Lord David Blunkett, and Dame Margaret Beckett. Kinnock, who won his own leadership contest nearly 43 years ago, told reporters: “I am quite excited - my spirits are lifted.”
Burnham Turns the Tables on Factional Politics
In a speech that signaled a break from internal party divisions, Burnham addressed a long-running joke at his expense: “A Blairite, a Brownite, and a Corbynite walk into a bar. The barman asks: ‘What are you having, Andy?’” He turned the joke on its head, saying: “In future, when a Burnhamite walks into a bar... I want the barman to say: 'Great to see you - we don’t like factional politics in here'.” The message was intended to show his dislike of those who put internal politics before the country, and to signal that he would represent all wings of the party as Keir Starmer's successor.
A Foregone Conclusion
Unlike previous special conferences, there was no nail-biting wait for results; Burnham ran unopposed, making his victory a foregone conclusion. The event was more a coronation than a contest, with party faithful gathering to celebrate their next leader and soon-to-be Prime Minister. After a bruising first two years in government, there was a sense of excitement for a fresh start, as Burnham promised a leadership that would be “unashamedly Labour.”
Light on Specifics
Burnham’s speech was heavy on praise for those who made his moment possible but light on specifics. He gave no details about who would fill the great offices of state, such as his second-in-command or Chancellor, as speculation swirls in Westminster. However, he did promise to make life “more affordable” as the cost of living crisis continues to bite. Voters may not have to wait long for details: the Labour Party’s transfer of power is now complete, and the transfer of power at Downing Street is expected within 72 hours.
