Andy Burnham will be sworn in as prime minister of the United Kingdom on Monday, yet he has not announced any cabinet appointments, with speculation mounting that he has yet to decide on a chancellor of the exchequer. In the latest episode of the Politics Weekly UK podcast, Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey examine the new PM's potential choices and the pressing issues awaiting his administration.
Key Contenders for Chancellor
The podcast highlights two leading candidates: Shabana Mahmood and Ed Miliband. Mahmood, a senior Labour figure, is seen as a safe pair of hands, while Miliband, the former party leader, brings experience but also political baggage. According to Crerar and Stacey, Burnham's decision will signal his economic direction.
Immediate Priorities
The new government faces a full in-tray, including cost-of-living pressures, NHS waiting lists, and Brexit-related trade frictions. The podcast notes that Burnham's first moves will be closely watched by markets and the public. Listeners are encouraged to send comments and questions to politicsweeklyuk@theguardian.com.
Further Insights
For more on Burnham's background, Dan Boffey's profile is available. Additionally, Pippa Crerar's interview with Volodymyr Zelensky can be viewed on the Politics Weekly YouTube channel.
