What we heard in Andy Burnham’s first speech as Labor leaderpublished at 12:57 Moscow time
Jenna Moon
Live editor
Image Source, PA Media
Andy Burnham took to the stage as the new leader of the Labor Party and future Prime Minister to a standing ovation. “What a moment,” he said, before adding, “I’m ready.”
And after thanking outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his leadership, Burnham spoke about what can be expected from him as he leads the party.
As a leader, he promised to do five things:
Create a “united Labor team”: Condemning the party’s history of infighting, Burnham said factionalism was “confusing” Labour, adding that a divided party could not “defeat Britain’s new right if we are divisive”.
New type of policy: Claiming that the public is “hungry” for policy change, Burnham said voters are tuned out. He said he was successful in the Makerfield by-election because he was honest about the need for new policies, but added: “This is our last chance for change.”
Clarification of the political direction of the party: While Burnham said he would work with other parties, he added that Labor would now “boldly and confidently be us” rather than adopt the policies of other parties.
Leader for the whole UK: Burnham promised that he would be “leader of the north, south, east, west, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.” He promised to unite the country for a common cause.
Decentralization of Whitehall: Repeating his previous pledge to devolve power from Westminster, Burnham said he wants to return power to regions across the country.
We got some insight into the policies that the Labor Party would adopt under Burnham, with the new leader promising new council houses, revitalized high streets and improved education. Despite the rumors, Burnham said he has yet to decide who will be on his best team.
Our political correspondents will continue to digest what we heard this afternoon—stay tuned here for more analysis.