UK Prime Minister Burnham admits first budget failed to meet his own radical promises
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Prime Minister Andy Burnham said his opening budget fell short of the sweeping changes he wanted, citing limited fiscal room and economic volatility. He outlined a 10-year agenda, denied an early election in 2027 and signaled a more state-heavy approach to energy, welfare and industry.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham told ITV News that his first budget did not achieve the radical changes he had hoped for, citing a lack of "room for manoeuvre" amid current economic volatility. He said the government has to balance ambition with the need to avoid adding to public uncertainty, and he even invoked recent protests in France as a cautionary example of what can happen when governments mishandle the pressure.
Burnham said a comprehensive 10-year plan will be unveiled by the end of the year, focusing on public control of sectors such as energy and reindustrialisation. He emphasized that the budget alone could not deliver all the reforms required to reverse a decade of decline, making clear that his government is preparing a much larger interventionist agenda.
On welfare policy, Burnham argued the priority should be moving people into work rather than imposing cuts, stating, "I don't actually want to see anyone in their 20s on benefits" and stressing the importance of security for those unable to work due to disability. He rejected the Institute for Fiscal Studies' warning of "brutal" future cuts, claiming the government is pursuing a different approach to support young people and reduce long-term benefit costs instead of forcing through austerity.
Addressing speculation about an early election, Burnham confirmed there will be no vote in 2027, saying he is not motivated by political calculation but by the need for a clear, long-term strategy. He added that he intends to seek a mandate only when the 10-year plan is ready for full implementation.
Burnham, who succeeded Sir Keir Starmer on 20 July, said he maintains a good working relationship with his predecessor and has been in contact with former chancellor Rachel Reeves. He acknowledged that while he did not author the 2024 Labour manifesto, many of its policies align with his agenda, including devolution measures and the National Care Service.
The ITV documentary "Burnham: Inside The First 100 Days" will air on 3 November, featuring behind-the-scenes footage of the prime minister's early tenure.