Andy Burnham suffered a devastating blow just hours after Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Labour leader and Prime Minister. TalkTV presenter Mark Dolan launched a scathing attack on Burnham, who is poised to take over the role in mid-July, during Monday's edition of his show.
Dolan's Takedown of Burnham
Dolan took aim at the revolving door of prime ministers the UK has seen over the past decade, stating, "I'm sick of these political grifters becoming prime minister and running the country. People that don't have a plan or an ideology, they just want the job." He specifically targeted Burnham, saying, "Boris Johnson, Keir Starmer and likely Andy Burnham. I mean, seriously, Ben do me a favour. Could the real Andy Burnham please stand up? We don't know what kind of prime minister Andy is going to be. And the reason why, Ben, is because he doesn't know."
Ben Habib's Criticism
Dolan was joined by businessman Ben Habib, leader of Advance UK and a former MP, who echoed the criticism. Habib noted, "He's being anointed as prime minister without having been in government for the last 10 years. He's been off in Manchester as a mayor doing local government." He added, "He's been elevated. Someone had to stand aside for him to become an MP. He then becomes an MP, and then within five seconds, he's prime minister." Habib argued this is not a good example of democracy, stating, "A real democracy, as you indicate, Mark, is one where someone has a political philosophy. Says it loud and clear what it is they wish to do, and then tries to lead the British people in that direction." He concluded, "We haven't had a prime minister like that, I think since Maggie, frankly."
Starmer's Resignation
Starmer announced on Monday that he would resign as Labour leader and PM, but will remain in post until his successor is chosen. No 10 has stated there will be "no new major policy or spending commitments" made until a new prime minister is appointed. Burnham, the former mayor of Manchester and now the new MP for Makerfield, is widely expected to take over, but faces significant criticism over his lack of recent government experience and unclear political vision.
