LONDON—Britain's governing Labour Party completed its leadership transition to Andy Burnham, consolidating a change at the top of both the party and government after Keir Starmer's resignation, with Burnham beginning work as prime minister and appointing a new Cabinet focused on his political agenda.
Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester and MP for Makerfield, was formally confirmed as Labour leader at a special party conference on July 17 after emerging as the only validly nominated candidate. The transition concluded after Starmer formally stepped down and King Charles III invited Burnham to form a government, in keeping with constitutional convention.
In his first address as prime minister, Burnham pledged to ease pressure on households facing high living costs, expand economic opportunities beyond London and pursue wider decentralisation of power. He also said his government would prioritize measures aimed at reducing homelessness and supporting industrial renewal.
Burnham moved quickly to reshape his administration, replacing several senior ministers associated with the previous leadership while retaining others in key positions. Among the appointments announced were John Healey as finance minister, Ed Miliband in a senior Cabinet role, Louise Haigh as deputy prime minister and Wes Streeting as defence secretary, according to official announcements and government reports.
Starmer, who resigned after mounting pressure within Labour following a period of declining political support, endorsed Burnham during the handover, saying he had his full backing as the party's new leader.
Burnham secured overwhelming support from Labour lawmakers and affiliated organisations during the leadership process, allowing the party to avoid a contested election. In his acceptance speech, he said Labour would seek to restore public confidence, unite the party and return power to communities across the country.
The leadership transition comes as the government faces challenges including slowing economic growth, pressure on public services and international security concerns. Burnham has indicated that further policy announcements will follow as his administration begins implementing its programme.
