UK prime minister outlines extensive public service expansion at Labour conference

Prime Minister Andy Burnham told delegates at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool that the United Kingdom needs a "fundamental rethink" to achieve equitable growth. He said the country has been on the "wrong path" for decades and promised a break with the policies of the past four decades, proposing a new economy and new politics.

Burnham highlighted social reforms, including the creation of a National Care Service that would be free at the point of use and focused on people rather than profit. He said the service would be "person-centred, high-quality" and provide recognition for care workers. The prime minister also announced plans to adjust the pension triple lock by 2030, exempt low-income pensioners from income tax, and ensure pension increases are not offset by care charges.

Housing affordability was addressed with a proposal to lower the deposit required for first-time home buyers. On utilities, Burnham said the government would reverse the ban on public ownership of water companies and launch a publicly-owned "Great British Grid" to increase competition and reduce electricity costs.

In foreign policy, Burnham pledged to support Ukraine and confront threats from Russia and Iran, and affirmed a commitment to a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine as pursued by Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband.

Analysts noted the speech contained strong rhetoric and warned that funding the announced reforms will require new revenue sources.