LONDON — Andy Burnham was sworn in as Britain's new prime minister on Monday, pledging to restore political stability, improve the country's governance and end rough sleeping. According to Antigua News Room, Burnham becomes the seventh person to hold the office in just ten years.
Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, was invited by King Charles III to form a government after his predecessor, Keir Starmer, formally tendered his resignation. Labour retains a majority in the House of Commons, enabling the party to install a new leader without triggering a general election. The next scheduled election is not required until 2029, and Burnham has given no indication he intends to call one early.
In his first address delivered outside 10 Downing Street, Burnham told the nation his government would make politics "work better" and help Britain "regain our stability." He also reaffirmed the country's defense commitments to its international partners.
Starmer delivered a farewell address before submitting his resignation to the king. He described his time as prime minister as the "privilege of my life" and wished Burnham "every success."
Burnham was expected to begin announcing Cabinet appointments later Monday. Among his stated priorities are tackling the cost-of-living crisis, expanding public housing, and presenting a ten-year national plan later this year.
International leaders moved quickly to offer congratulations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese all extended their well-wishes and expressed interest in strengthening ties with Britain under the new administration.
