Andy Burnham has become the United Kingdom’s prime minister and was invited by King Charles III to form a government, after Keir Starmer’s resignation.
Burnham enters office promising a “10-year plan for the country” to address some of the fundamental issues holding the UK back.
He added: “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.”
In his first Downing Street speech he promised 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 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.
“I go with good grace, I go with a smile, and I go proud of everything that we have achieved,” he added.
After a brief audience with the king, the palace announced Starmer had tendered his resignation which Charles was “graciously pleased to accept.”