Burnham's Looming Agenda
Andy Burnham is hurtling towards Downing Street with less than two weeks until July 20, when he is almost certain to become Prime Minister. The only obstacle is a leadership contest requiring another Labour MP to secure enough signatures today, an outcome that appears unlikely. As Sir Keir Starmer prepares to depart, he leaves behind a sprawling list of unfinished business that Burnham must tackle.
Key Issues on the Table
The incoming leader will inherit the Defence Investment Plan, a proposed under-16s social media ban, the European Union reset, the ongoing cost of living crisis, an expected hike in energy bills due to the Iran War, and the need to reform the social care system. Additionally, the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payments is due to publish its interim report soon, and the government must respond to the Milburn Review on young people not in education, employment or training, with the second part expected later this year.
Burnham, who has long championed the Hillsborough Law, will need to see that through. The UK is also hosting the G20 next year, requiring extensive preparation. Starmer's digital ID system has not been fully rolled out, nor have controversial proposals to limit trial by jury, which surfaced at Deputy PMQs. Complex reforms to the special educational needs (Send) system also await.
Economic Pressures
The broader economy presents a significant challenge. According to the Office for Budget Responsibility, almost all forecast scenarios show public finances on an unsustainable path. Burnham has had just 20 days since winning the Makerfield by-election to prepare for government, with about 11 days left until he becomes PM. This preparation time is roughly two-thirds the length of the 2024 general election campaign and two-thirds of Liz Truss's famously short tenure.
Defence and National Security
Defence is a critical example. The Defence Investment Plan involves deciding which government areas face cuts to fund national security. More broadly, Burnham could face a crisis similar to Starmer's in February, when an ally launched a war. Unlike a Prime Minister, Burnham as Greater Manchester Mayor did not receive classified national security briefings. He will rely on meetings with top brass during the transition. With NATO warning Russia could launch a war by 2030, Burnham must quickly get up to speed.
