Andy Burnham's honeymoon period as prime minister lasted less than 48 hours, according to political commentators. The new occupant of No 10 has already faced two scandals, a remarkably fast start even by Westminster standards. Aaron Newbury, Political Correspondent, notes that while most PMs enjoy a 100-day honeymoon, Burnham's may have ended as quickly as it takes to boil a kettle – which, thanks to his policies, is now pennies cheaper, possibly.
VAT on Electricity Bills Scrapped, Funding Questioned
On Tuesday, Burnham announced the removal of VAT on electricity bills, promising average household savings of £45 a year – about 12p per day. The cost, several hundred million pounds, was to be covered by scrapping the digital ID scheme. However, within hours, Darren Jones, a former ally of Keir Starmer ousted a day earlier, pointed out that the scheme was never funded. Critics argue it is impossible to fund cheaper energy with money that does not exist.
Garden Quip Sparks Fury
The second scandal emerged from a No 10 garden gathering after the first Cabinet meeting. Wes Streeting turned to Shabana Mahmood and joked about the new Justice Secretary, saying: "He wants to let them all out." The laughter drew criticism given Labour's record of releasing thousands of prisoners early. The incident was seen as insensitive, particularly to victims of crime.
Burnham had promised to do politics differently, and he is delivering – at twice the speed. With Parliament adjourned for summer recess, MPs will not be able to question him for some 50 days. Come September, when they return, the pressure is expected to mount.
