LONDON (AP) — Britain looks set to get a change of tone at the top, replacing stolid, unpopular Prime Minister Keir Starmer with popular, affable Andy Burnham. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
But the charismatic Burnham may have difficulty — at least initially — shedding his former political positions and continuing Starmer's policies. Burnham returned to the House of Commons on June 22, 2026, after winning the Makerfield by-election. He was previously the regional mayor of northwest England.
Starmer announced his resignation on June 22, 2026, outside his residence at 10 Downing Street. Burnham was elected as the new leader of the Labour Party. In his first speech, Burnham indicated he would distance himself from Starmer's policies but noted that real changes would take time.
During his election campaign, Burnham criticized Starmer's tax policies and social reforms. However, experts say Burnham's minority government will not allow him to change many of Starmer's bills. Burnham himself stated, "I choose my own path, but our options are limited."
Burnham was with supporters at the Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Club in Ashton-in-Makerfield during voting in the Makerfield by-election on June 18, 2026. He was sworn in as an MP in the House of Commons on June 22 and officially took up his seat.
One of the main challenges facing Burnham is the economic crisis and problems in the healthcare system. He said he supports some of Starmer's reforms but will try to soften them. However, the opposition Conservative Party calls Burnham "Starmer's shadow," arguing he cannot deliver real change.
Despite Burnham's high popularity, his room for political maneuver is limited. According to experts, Burnham will have to fight to implement his policies in the coming months.