Andy Burnham is on the verge of becoming the UK’s next prime minister after securing the backing of an overwhelming majority of Labour MPs. With 322 out of 403 Labour MPs supporting him, he needs just one more nomination to make it mathematically impossible for any challenger to stand against him. Home Office minister Mike Tapp has confirmed he will back Burnham when the Commons returns on Monday.
Nandy Promises Bolder, Faster Action
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said a Burnham-led government would act more quickly and boldly than under Sir Keir Starmer. In an interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, she stated: “I think there will be two things that will be different under Andy Burnham. The first is that it will be faster and bolder and he’s willing to think very differently about how we deliver that change.”
Nandy also emphasised a shift in the party’s approach, saying: “The second thing that I think will be different is that I think we will wear our hearts on our sleeve more. I think people will see us taking the fight to any system that stands in the way of them living better lives.”
Burnham’s Coronation Imminent
Even before nominations officially opened, Burnham appeared certain to be the only candidate, setting the stage for a coronation at a special Labour conference in a week’s time. He is expected to become prime minister on July 20. Burnham expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating: “Their support comes from across the PLP and reflects a shared belief that Britain needs a new approach to politics.”
Almost every Cabinet member backed Burnham, including former health secretary Wes Streeting and former armed forces minister Al Carns, both previously seen as potential challengers. Only three Cabinet members did not nominate him: key Starmer ally Steve Reed, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood (who chairs Labour’s national executive committee), and Labour chairwoman Anna Turley, who are likely abstaining due to their party roles.
Defence Funding Challenge
One pressing issue left for Burnham is finding billions to fund defence. There is a £4.7 billion gap over four years in the defence investment plan, and billions more are needed to meet NATO’s target of spending 3.5% of GDP on the military by 2035. Nandy suggested Burnham might explore “other options” beyond reallocating existing government spending, leaving open the possibility of tax hikes or increased borrowing.
“What I’m absolutely convinced about, having known him well now for 17 years, is that whether we fund defence is not going to be a question,” Nandy said. “The question will be how.”
Starmer’s Endorsement
Sir Keir Starmer, who is stepping down, endorsed Burnham on Thursday, saying he thought Burnham would make a good prime minister. When asked if Burnham would be better than him, Starmer laughed and replied: “These are things best judged by other people.”
