Andy Burnham is set to become Britain's seventh prime minister in a decade on Monday, pledging to "rewire" the country by focusing on issues that directly affect people's lives, including the cost-of-living crisis and struggling public services.
Following Keir Starmer's farewell address outside 10 Downing Street and his formal resignation to King Charles III, the monarch is expected to invite Burnham to form the next government.
The 56-year-old, who earned the nickname "King of the North" during his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester, will then begin the task of assembling his government.
His first priority will be announcing a new Cabinet, a process that has already generated considerable discussion within the Labour Party. Once in office, Burnham will face several pressing challenges, including weak economic growth and concerns over the performance of key public utility companies.
Burnham to outline government's priorities
In his first address as prime minister, Burnham is expected to present a vision for what his office describes as "a more stable and responsible politics."
According to a statement from his office, he will portray his appointment as an opportunity for national reflection, arguing that Britain must confront its challenges honestly and that lasting improvements require political stability.
Speaking on Friday after securing the Labour leadership, Burnham described his election as "the most significant change moment in British politics for 40 years."
He pledged to reform the political system with the aim of improving living standards, making everyday life more affordable and ensuring that prosperity reaches communities across the country.
Burnham's message was also directed at Labour MPs, many of whom view him as one of the party's strongest figures to counter the growing popularity of Nigel Farage's Reform UK, amid concerns over Keir Starmer's declining public support.
One of Burnham's first major decisions will be the appointment of his Cabinet, particularly the choice of finance minister, a role widely regarded as central to the government's economic agenda.
Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband had initially been considered a leading contender for the position, although recent speculation has suggested that Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has emerged as the frontrunner.
Burnham, however, dismissed speculation on Friday, stating that no final decisions had been made regarding his ministerial team.
His early policy choices are also expected to attract close attention.
On Sunday, the government abandoned plans to require all employees to carry a digital identity document, a proposal originally intended to tackle illegal migration but criticised by a cross-party parliamentary committee as unworkable.
Markets and political observers are now focusing on Burnham's approach to taxation, public spending, energy policy and the regulation of utility companies.
One of the most closely watched issues is the future of Thames Water, Britain's largest water supplier, which has faced mounting criticism over its debt burden and repeated sewage discharges.
Deputy Labour Leader Lucy Powell, a close ally of Burnham, suggested on Sunday that Thames Water could be placed under "special measures," allowing the government to exercise greater oversight of the company.
Speaking to Sky News, Powell said Burnham intended to redirect the government's focus towards tackling the cost-of-living crisis and reshaping the economy to better reflect the priorities of ordinary people.
