Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has indicated he is willing to order a two-day recall of Parliament in August to allow MPs to question new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, according to parliamentary sources.
Speaker Open to Early August Session
Burnham, who becomes Prime Minister on Monday, has reportedly requested at least two weeks to establish his government before facing MPs. However, that timeline would push his first parliamentary appearance into September, when the summer recess ends.
Sir Lindsay has opened the door to an earlier hearing. One source said: "Six weeks is a very long time to go without proper scrutiny in parliament. It's maybe understandable that Andy wants a fortnight to get things in place, but that doesn't mean we have to wait til September." The source added: "I think if people want to come back for a couple of days in early August then the Speaker will not stand in their way."
Mega Session Planned if Delay Continues
The Mail reported that Sir Lindsay has contingency plans for a "mega session" of parliamentary scrutiny if Burnham delays his appearance until autumn. This would involve Burnham and his top team facing extended questioning.
Labour blocked Conservative attempts to extend the current parliamentary session into next week, which would have forced Burnham to face MPs sooner. As a result, Burnham could govern for up to six weeks without direct parliamentary accountability before Parliament returns in September.
Burnham's Path to Power
MPs will break for summer recess on Thursday, with Burnham set to be confirmed as Labour leader on Friday. Sir Keir Starmer is expected to resign as Prime Minister to the King on Monday morning, after which Burnham will be appointed.
Burnham, the former Manchester Mayor, won the Makerfield by-election last month. The Conservatives have criticised his rapid ascent, branding him a "coronation chicken" after Labour vetoed a vote on the leadership transition at the last minute.
