Andy Burnham will officially become Britain’s new Prime Minister today, stepping into No10 following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer, reports BritPanorama.
The former Mayor of Greater Manchester is set to address the nation outside the iconic black door of Downing Street. His speech is expected to outline his vision for governance and immediate priorities in a time marked by political change.
Key timings for the handover of power in Westminster are as follows: at 11:15 am, outgoing PM Keir Starmer will deliver his final farewell address before heading to Buckingham Palace to formally tender his resignation to King Charles III. Following this, Burnham will arrive at Buckingham Palace at 12:00 pm to be officially appointed Prime Minister and invited to form a new government.
Burnham is expected to deliver his first address as PM at 12:15 pm today. Insiders suggest that the speech will emphasize bringing stability to the country and providing relief for working families amidst ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
What time is Andy Burnham’s first speech as PM?
Andy Burnham’s inaugural address as Prime Minister is scheduled for 12:15 pm today (July 20).
His first address is anticipated to mark a significant reset for the government. Insiders indicate that Burnham plans to call for a moment of “reflection and resolution,” aiming to rebuild public trust and focus on results following a period of instability.
Key policy priorities projected in his speech are likely to include:
- Public control of utilities: A commitment to take greater public control over critical services, with initial plans to place troubled Thames Water into special public administration.
- Cost-of-living relief: Proposals to scrap planned digital ID card schemes to reallocate government resources toward reducing household energy bills and easing living costs.
- Devolution and housing: A reaffirmation of plans to transfer decision-making powers from Westminster to local regions, accompanied by a commitment to initiate a council housebuilding drive.
- Energy security: An outline of an energy policy that supports both existing North Sea oil and gas operations as well as investments in renewable energy to ensure household energy security.
How can I watch it all live?
Full coverage of Burnham’s speech will be available live on various platforms.
As Andy Burnham assumes the role of Prime Minister, the political landscape in the UK is poised for changes that may reflect broader shifts in public sentiment. His administration will face the immediate challenges of public trust and economic stability, steering the government’s focus towards responses that prioritise the welfare of everyday families while addressing long-term structural adjustments across various sectors.
