Andy Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, on Monday became the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, making him the country’s seventh prime minister in the last 10 years.
Burnham also met with King Charles III at Buckingham Palace on Monday, where he was formally invited to form a new government.
He succeeds Keir Starmer, who tendered his resignation following internal party pressure and a significant drop in public approval.
Burnham enters office promising a “10-year plan for the country” to address some of the fundamental issues holding the UK back.
“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,” he added.
In his first Downing Street speech, Burnham promise to give people “breathing room” against the rising cost of living.
He intends to urge the country to be honest about the challenges it faces and will call for “reflection and resolution.”
He enumerated that he is “acutely conscious” that the UK has had seven prime ministers in a little over 10 years, stressing the need for more stable and responsible politics and pledging to restore faith in government.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace confirmed Burnham’s appointment, saying: “His Majesty received in audience the Rt Hon Andrew Burnham MP and requested him to form a new Administration.
“The Rt Hon Andrew Burnham MP accepted The King’s offer and kissed hands upon his appointment as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury.”
In his final appearance at the prime minister’s office in Downing Street, Starmer said his “work is done” and that he was leaving the country “stronger and fairer” than when he took office just two years ago.
