London, July 20 (PA Media/dpa/GNA) – Andy Burnham became the United Kingdom’s prime minister on Monday, and was invited by King Charles III to form a government, after Keir Starmer’s resignation.
Burnham enters office, promising a “10-year plan for the country” to address some of the fundamental issues holding the UK back. But he added, “I’m not saying that means I’m setting out to say I’m going to be here for 10 years. It’s more that we’re not in the right place structurally.”
In his first speech at the prime minister’s office in Downing Street, Burnham promised to win over voters “fed up with politics” and show the world that the UK can once again be a source of stability.
Speaking without the lectern used by his predecessors, Burnham said he would set out help to address the cost-of-living squeeze. He also promised to “end rough sleeping in our country.” Burnham, who was met with cheers by supporters in Downing Street, said: “I am acutely conscious that I am the sixth person in the last 10 years to walk up this street, the seventh prime minister since 2016, making this a moment for reflection and new resolution.” “It requires my generation of politicians to raise our game and rise to the new challenge.” “Britain needs to show the world that we can regain our stability once again.”
He concluded his first speech by urging people to “pull with me” to “build a new national sense of unity, of common purpose and positivity.”
Speaking at Downing Street earlier on Monday, Starmer had previously said his “work is done” and that he was leaving the country “stronger and fairer” than when he took office just two years ago. “I go with good grace, I go with a smile, and I go proud of everything that we have achieved,” he added.
After a brief audience with the king, the palace announced Starmer had tendered his resignation which Charles was “graciously pleased to accept.
European leaders have congratulated Burnham, seizing the opportunity to call for closer EU-UK relations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, said she looked forward to working with Burnham for the “prosperity of people on both sides of the Channel.” She said in a post on X: “Congratulations, dear Andy Burnham, on your confirmation as Prime Minister.” “I look forward to working with you to strengthen the EU-UK partnership.” “For the security of our shared continent. And the prosperity of people on both sides of the Channel.”
Echoing her calls for closer ties, president of the European Council AntĂłnio Costa said, “In the last two years EU-UK relations gained a new, positive momentum. I look forward to continuing to further deepen our co-operation for the benefit of our citizens and businesses.” “The United Kingdom and the European Union are stronger together.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, also congratulated Burnham on his new role. He said, “Congratulations Prime Minister Burnham on your appointment as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.” “Australia and the United Kingdom are longstanding friends, allies and partners, united by shared values and deep ties between our peoples.” “I look forward to working with you to strengthen our partnership and promote security, resilience and prosperity in the years ahead.”
GNA