Katie Harris

Andy Burnham defended government guidance informing asylum seekers that rape, domestic abuse, sex with anyone under 16, and other abuses are serious crimes under UK law. The nine-page document explains consent, gender equality, and the consequences of offending, including imprisonment, loss of accommodation and support, refusal of asylum claims, and removal. Conservative and Reform UK politicians condemned the guidance and called instead for deportations, while the Home Office said everyone entering the UK must obey its laws and that failed-asylum-seeker returns have reached their highest level since 2010.

Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho accused Prime Minister Andy Burnham of delaying a decision on the Rosebank oil field and Jackdaw gas field because of political concerns following summer heatwaves. She argued that domestically produced North Sea gas has lower emissions than imported gas and criticized the government’s net-zero strategy. The projects had been approved by the previous Conservative government but were rejected following a Greenpeace legal challenge, leaving Labour to decide whether to approve them. Climate campaigners and some Labour MPs oppose further drilling, while Donald Trump has urged the UK to proceed.

A report by the Onward think tank claims that abandoning the target of sourcing all electricity from clean sources by 2030, removing carbon taxes and using a mix of nuclear, gas and renewables could save £320 billion over 20 years and reduce household electricity bills by up to £200 annually by 2035. Conservative figures endorse the findings and call for more North Sea oil and gas, while Labour argues that the proposal would increase fossil-fuel dependence, put jobs at risk and fail to address climate change. Labour donor Dale Vince has conditionally backed the Rosebank and Jackdaw projects, subject to price controls, as pressure grows over their approval.

The state pension is expected to rise by around £500 next April under the triple lock, which guarantees annual increases of at least 2.5%. Supporters say the increase is essential as nearly two million UK pensioners live in poverty and more than 100,000 elderly households are reportedly in energy debt. Critics argue that the policy is unaffordable and benefits relatively well-off pensioners while younger workers face housing pressures. Rising energy and food costs are expected to intensify financial hardship over the winter, strengthening calls to preserve the policy.

Polling by More in Common found that 39% of Britons viewed Nigel Farage’s Clacton victory as a good result for him, compared with 15% who viewed it negatively and 24% who were neutral. Support was especially strong among Reform UK voters, 78% of whom considered it a good result. However, 49% said Farage should face another by-election if an investigation finds he breached parliamentary financial-declaration rules concerning a £5 million gift from cryptocurrency billionaire Christopher Harborne. The result strengthened Reform’s political position but did not resolve concerns about Farage’s finances.

A City Hall Conservatives report urges Mayor Sadiq Khan to prioritise three- and four-bedroom family homes rather than the one- and two-bedroom flats developers are incentivised to build. Andrew Boff argues that the current system worsens overcrowding, drives families out of London and damages the capital's skyline, while Khan's proposed London Plan could allow up to 56,000 homes on green-belt land. The Mayor's spokesperson says City Hall is addressing the housing crisis by delivering homes of different sizes and will maintain strong protections for strategically important green spaces.

Reform UK plans to bar foreign nationals, including people with EU settled status, from claiming most UK welfare benefits, including Universal Credit, housing support, pension credit, child benefit and disability payments. The party says the measures, alongside abolishing Personal Independence Payments and the health element of Universal Credit for working-age adults, could cut welfare spending by £50 billion annually and save £21 billion a year within five years. The proposals would require renegotiating the UK’s post-Brexit agreement with the EU, while exemptions would apply to war widows’ pensions and Armed Forces compensation. The Conservatives and Labour argue that the plan is hastily assembled, could strip support from millions of lawful residents and trigger renewed Brexit negotiations.

The Conservatives have proposed a crackdown on illegal traveller sites, including indefinite bans on returning to encampments, making vehicle trespass an offence after an order to leave, removing restrictions on evictions where no alternative site exists, and tightening rules on retrospective planning applications. James Cleverly and Chris Philp said the measures would end what they call unequal treatment and give police and councils greater authority. The proposals are linked to the Conservatives' plans to leave the European Convention on Human Rights and repeal the Human Rights Act. House of Commons research cited in the report found that caravans on unauthorised sites in England increased by 1,080 over the two years to January 2026, while Labour defended its planning reforms and warned that leaving the ECHR would hinder efforts to remove people who enter the country illegally.

Andy Burnham has acknowledged that Labour must rebuild trust with farmers after months of anger over its inheritance tax changes. The policy, introduced by Rachel Reeves, originally applied to farms valued above £1 million before the threshold was raised to £2.5 million, but Conservative politicians and farming representatives continue to demand its complete repeal. Farmer Andrew Ward says the tax could still force land sales and argues that other measures, including higher employer National Insurance contributions and the minimum-wage increase, are also harming farmers. Burnham visited a potato farm in Cornwall while announcing £65 million in support for farmers affected by severe heatwaves and drought, which have raised concerns about food prices and domestic food security.

Andy Burnham's net approval rating has fallen five points to 11, according to a Survation poll, despite a recent Labour polling recovery after his leadership and Keir Starmer's departure. Labour stands at 27% in an Opinium poll, ahead of Reform UK on 25% and the Conservatives on 18%. Burnham is facing criticism over prison early releases, a rise in small-boat crossings and taking a holiday shortly after entering office, while his upcoming UK tour will focus on rough sleeping, fly-tipping and other issues he says Westminster has neglected.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham argues that wealthier parts of Britain should share responsibility for housing refugees and asylum seekers rather than leaving accommodation concentrated in poorer communities. His comments follow opposition in Piddington, Oxfordshire, to plans for 1,250 asylum seekers at a former military site near Bicester. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp rejects the approach, arguing that irregular migrants should not be housed anywhere and should instead be deported quickly, potentially requiring withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights. The government is seeking alternatives to asylum hotels, including houses in multiple occupation and former military facilities, amid increased small-boat crossings in the English Channel.

A YouGov poll puts Labour on 24%, ahead of Reform UK on 22% and the Conservatives on 21%, with Labour benefiting from a bounce under new leader Andy Burnham. Reform's decline comes as Nigel Farage faces scrutiny over a £5 million gift from a cryptocurrency billionaire and its potential parliamentary disclosure requirements. Farage resigned as an MP to trigger the Clacton by-election; the standards investigation could resume if he wins, and a sufficiently serious finding could lead to a recall petition and another by-election.

Minister Hamish Falconer said the UK should explore further cooperation with the EU, particularly in services, while remaining within Labour’s manifesto commitments against rejoining the single market, customs union or accepting freedom of movement. Conservative frontbencher Alex Burghart accused Labour and Andy Burnham of pursuing a damaging deal that could hand regulatory control to Brussels, arguing instead for domestic economic reforms. Keir Starmer’s opposition to rejoining the EU is also noted.

Counter-terrorism officers have reopened an investigation into an alleged incendiary-device attack at Nigel Farage's home in April 2025 after identifying a line of inquiry they say was not previously pursued. Police are examining whether the incident is linked to Joshua Kerry, who has been charged with the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe. Counter Terrorism Policing London has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Farage said the police had made mistakes and argued that the death of Widdecombe prompted authorities to take threats against Reform UK figures more seriously.

More than 110,000 UK pensioner households are reportedly in energy debt, though campaigners believe the real figure is higher because many older people avoid borrowing by reducing heating or food spending. Rising bills, a 13% July price-cap increase and a possible further increase in October are expected to intensify pressure over winter. The article criticizes Labour's handling of the winter fuel allowance, notes Andy Burnham's commitment to the state-pension triple lock and his plan to remove VAT from electricity, and argues that the proposed £45 average saving will not resolve pensioners' wider affordability problems.

University of York analysis of government survey data indicates that more than 110,000 UK pensioner households—80,832 single households and 29,219 couples—were in energy arrears during 2024/25. Campaigners say the figures understate the problem because many older people avoid debt by reducing heating, food and other essential energy use. The findings predate a 13% Ofgem price-cap increase in July and a forecast further rise in October, while supplier debt has reached £4.79 billion. Advocacy groups are calling for a targeted energy social tariff, an increase in the Warm Home Discount from £150 to £400, debt relief and continued protection from the pension triple lock. The government points to the triple lock and a planned removal of VAT on electricity, but critics say the estimated £45 annual saving is inadequate; the article contrasts pensioner hardship with major oil and gas company profits.

Joshua Bonehill-Paine withdrew as the Conservatives' prospective council candidate for Crewkerne South in Somerset after backlash over his past antisemitic harassment, neo-Nazi material and prison sentences. He said opponents would focus on his past rather than his current work and claimed he would instead advise the Conservative Party's culture and integration commission on radicalisation. Kemi Badenoch defended his rehabilitation and said former extremists could help combat antisemitism, while Jewish groups, Baroness Berger and Reform UK condemned his continued involvement in public life.

Restore Britain leader Rupert Lowe has offered to set aside his differences with Nigel Farage and cooperate with Reform UK if it adopts policies including a burqa and halal meat ban, a referendum on the death penalty, and excluding former Conservative ministers from a future Cabinet. Farage says Reform is building a broad coalition and will welcome voters from other parties, but insists there is only one party capable of delivering change and that he will not abandon his team. Lowe’s movement has recently taken votes from Reform, including 9% in a Greater Manchester mayoral contest, increasing pressure for cooperation on the British right.

Terminally ill campaigner Sophie Blake has urged Andy Burnham to meet dying people and bereaved families after he argued that assisted-dying legislation should be put on hold until palliative and social care are fixed. Dignity in Dying and Labour MP Lauren Edwards said care improvements can proceed alongside legal reform, while opponent Jess Asato welcomed Burnham’s position. The proposed Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill would allow eligible adults in England and Wales with fewer than six months to live to seek an assisted death, subject to approval by two doctors and an expert panel. The Bill is due to return to the Commons on September 11 after its predecessor ran out of time in the House of Lords.

Green Party leader Zack Polanski has refused to apologise to Nigel Farage after inadvertently resharing an Instagram image showing a guillotine and the message “We’re only making plans for Nigel.” Polanski said he failed to inspect a 20-image collaboration carefully, removed the post once alerted, condemned political violence and offered to cooperate with police, while arguing that the mistake did not warrant an apology. Reform UK accused him of inciting murder and said he was unfit to lead a national party. Farage called for consequences, and the Metropolitan Police said it was conducting inquiries.

Analysis attributed to Reform UK estimates that a 10% levy on estates to fund social care could cost the average mortgage-free homeowner in England and Wales about £74,737, and around £50,669 in Andy Burnham's Makerfield constituency. Burnham previously suggested a similar levy while serving as health secretary in 2010 and has declined to rule out reviving the idea, but the government says there are no plans to introduce a “death tax” and that social care reform should be based on broad consensus. Reform spokesperson Robert Jenrick argues the measure would damage inheritances and lacks a public mandate.

Miatta Fahnbulleh, newly appointed Energy Secretary under Andy Burnham, previously supported a Frequent Flyer Levy while leading the New Economics Foundation. The proposal would impose escalating charges on multiple flights per year, replacing Air Passenger Duty. Critics, including Conservative MP Richard Holden, argue the plan would burden families already facing high flight taxes. The Government said the proposal is not policy and highlighted current efforts to reduce household energy costs.

Andy Burnham signalled that raising the frozen £12,570 personal allowance would be considered in the upcoming Budget but clarified there is currently no commitment to do so, citing financial constraints. He reiterated that the issue frequently arose during campaigning but stressed he would not make unfunded promises. Conservative MP James Cleverly criticised the shift, while the government announced plans to remove VAT from electricity bills and cap bus fares at £2 to alleviate cost‑of‑living pressures.

Andy Burnham has retreated from earlier suggestions he might raise the £12,570 tax‑free personal allowance, with allies indicating there is no commitment due to financial constraints. Although he had hinted before entering Downing Street that the allowance would be reviewed, advisers say the costs made an announcement unworkable. Burnham said the issue would be considered in the upcoming Budget and emphasised the need to show how policies will be funded, while announcing plans to scrap VAT on electricity bills despite concerns over its funding raised by Darren Jones.

Anas Sarwar is expected to resign as Scottish Labour leader to serve as a minister in Andy Burnham’s new government, requiring elevation to the House of Lords and his departure from Holyrood. Sarwar, who had previously urged Keir Starmer to step down, praised Burnham’s leadership after he entered Number 10. The SNP criticised the potential appointment as undemocratic and inappropriate, highlighting Labour’s poor electoral performance in Scotland. Multiple ministerial posts in Burnham’s administration remain to be filled.

Angela Rayner faces political pressure to return a £17,000 severance payment she received after resigning over unpaid stamp duty, following her reinstatement as Housing Secretary after HMRC cleared her of wrongdoing. Conservative critics accuse her and Labour of double standards, while allies note similar severance payments received by Tory figures such as Kemi Badenoch.

A Conservative attempt to force a parliamentary debate on Andy Burnham’s early policy plans was rejected in the House of Lords, with peers voting down a motion to summon a minister before the summer recess. Conservatives accused the new Prime Minister and his government of avoiding scrutiny, while Labour figures argued the administration was still being formed. The Liberal Democrats were criticised for voting against the motion, and the dispute follows Conservative complaints about cancelled debates and the early Commons recess. Burnham, newly elected in a by-election, has pledged major political reforms.

Andy Burnham’s rise to Prime Minister prompts criticism over a lack of clear policies, limited mandate, and concerns he is avoiding scrutiny. His early cabinet reshuffle removes several senior Labour figures, signalling a potential break from the Starmer era. Questions focus on his stance on welfare, tax policy, immigration, unemployment and whether he will call a general election amid risks from Reform UK. Burnham is characterised as politically ambiguous and facing immediate pressure to revive the economy, clarify his agenda and manage internal Labour divisions.

Readers are invited to submit questions for incoming UK prime minister Andy Burnham as he prepares to enter Downing Street. The piece highlights uncertainty around his plans, including positions on Brexit, welfare spending, oil and gas policy, and economic leadership, while noting internal Labour dynamics and speculation about key cabinet appointments. Martyn Brown will answer reader questions once Burnham takes office.

Andy Burnham prepares to take over as Labour leader and incoming prime minister, promising an ambitious agenda focused on economic renewal, reindustrialisation and decentralisation. Party figures voice concerns over potential cabinet appointments, particularly the reported plan to appoint Shabana Mahmood as chancellor instead of Ed Miliband. Critics from Reform UK and the Green Party accuse Burnham of avoiding policy scrutiny and offering watered-down versions of their proposals, while Sadiq Khan faces backlash for accepting a peerage despite his previous opposition to the House of Lords. Keir Starmer expresses confidence that Labour can win the next general election under Burnham’s leadership.

Labour MPs are pushing back against Andy Burnham’s expected decision to appoint Shabana Mahmood as chancellor, arguing she lacks economic experience and public positions on key financial issues. Some MPs instead back Ed Miliband, citing his background in finance, experience in government and alignment with climate policy priorities. Allies of Mahmood defend her leadership record in the Home Office, while the final decision is expected as Burnham unveils his Cabinet after entering Downing Street.

Andy Burnham faces backlash after suggesting potential tax increases and refusing to rule out a wealth tax in an interview with Gary Lineker. Conservative figures accuse Labour of planning further tax rises and damaging economic growth, while new data showing minimal GDP growth intensifies criticism of Rachel Reeves’ record. Keir Starmer prepares for a final visit to Ukraine before handing over to Burnham, who is set to become Labour leader and prime minister following overwhelming support from MPs and affiliated unions. The Government announces the nationalisation of British Steel to safeguard production in Scunthorpe, drawing mixed political reactions, and ministers condemn Argentinian players for displaying a Falklands‑related banner during the World Cup.

A record 10 million people aged over 65 are now paying income tax due to the continued freeze of the personal allowance and increases in the state pension under the triple lock. HM Revenue and Customs data show the number of taxpaying pensioners has risen by over three million since the freeze began in 2021–22. Experts warn that extended freezes and rising pensions will push even more retirees into paying tax, while campaigners argue that raising the lower tax threshold is needed to ease the cost‑of‑living pressure on older and low‑income households. Growing debate also surrounds the sustainability of the triple lock and proposals to raise the state pension age.

Reform UK called an emergency press conference amid a counter-terrorism investigation into the killing of Ann Widdecombe, with police examining whether other Reform figures were potential targets. Party leaders expressed rising concerns over MP safety, and private security was offered to its representatives. Government minister Kanishka Narayan defended proposed social media curfews for teenagers, while Andy Burnham urged a comprehensive review of MPs’ security. Keir Starmer prepared for his final Prime Minister’s Questions, and political tensions increased as parties exchanged criticism over parliamentary accountability.

Rachel Reeves urged stronger UK‑EU cooperation in what is expected to be her final major speech as Chancellor, calling for a bolder approach to securing economic and security partnerships with Brussels. She pressed for the postponed UK‑EU summit to be rescheduled quickly to advance agreements on youth mobility, agrifoods and emissions. Reeves defended her economic record, highlighting growth, reduced borrowing, rising investment and falling waiting lists, while urging incoming prime minister Andy Burnham to balance radical change with credibility. Her role is expected to end when Burnham enters Downing Street, though Cabinet appointments remain unconfirmed.

Reform UK's Robert Jenrick accuses incoming prime minister Andy Burnham of preparing significant tax increases, citing ten measures Burnham has previously supported or declined to rule out. The proposed rises, combined with existing tax policies under Labour, are estimated by Reform to exceed £100 billion. Burnham's spokesperson rejects the claims as scaremongering and stresses his commitment to the 2024 manifesto and his record of economic growth in Greater Manchester.

MPs approved Shabana Mahmood’s Immigration and Asylum Bill by 264 votes to 90, with Andy Burnham voting in favour as he prepares to become Labour leader and prime minister. The article provides a full list of how each MP voted across parties, noting internal Labour concerns about proposed changes to the timeline for migrants applying for indefinite leave to remain, although this element was not part of the vote at this stage.

The outgoing UK prime minister travelled to Paris to meet allies supporting Ukraine and confirmed that Britain will join the EU’s €60 billion defence loan scheme, allowing UK defence firms to seek procurement contracts in exchange for financial contributions. The initiative forms part of efforts to deepen cooperation with Brussels and sustain military backing for Ukraine as the conflict endures. The report notes ongoing political transitions in the UK, including Rachel Reeves’ final actions as chancellor and Andy Burnham’s expected succession as Labour leader.

Reform UK claims Andy Burnham would introduce £38 billion in additional taxes, pushing Labour’s total annual increases above £100 billion, a charge his team rejects as scaremongering. The live updates detail Labour’s decision to ban Iran’s IRGC, internal disputes in Parliament involving Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, growing tensions over Labour’s immigration reforms, and developments in the investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s murder, now treated as terrorism. Other updates include legal action by Olly Robbins over his dismissal, pressures on Burnham to clarify social care plans once he becomes prime minister, and government efforts to change laws enabling the deportation of grooming gang leader Shabir Ahmed.

Nearly 80 Labour MPs have urged Andy Burnham to soften Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s proposed immigration reforms, particularly plans to double the residency requirement for indefinite leave to remain. The MPs criticised the Home Office’s rhetoric and called for a more compassionate approach. The dissent emerges ahead of the Immigration and Asylum Bill’s return to the Commons, where backbench resistance could escalate. Burnham has previously signalled support for Mahmood’s reforms, emphasising the need for both control of borders and a positive narrative around migration.

Nigel Farage accuses major UK parties of avoiding the Clacton by-election after he resigned to trigger a contest framed as a challenge to the political establishment. The Conservatives and Labour declined to run candidates, arguing the vote is a distraction from scrutiny over Farage’s finances, including an investigation into an undeclared £5 million gift from Christopher Harborne and support from George Cottrell. With major parties absent, Farage’s main opponent is expected to be Count Binface.

Conservative MPs accuse Keir Starmer of using government vehicles to transport his cat between Downing Street and Chequers. Ministers say there is no central record of pet transport but note past prime ministers have done the same. Conservatives criticise the practice as inappropriate use of public resources, while Labour responds by citing Boris Johnson’s dog causing damage at Chequers. Starmer is expected to leave Downing Street soon as Andy Burnham prepares to take over.

David Lammy is set to deputise for Keir Starmer at Prime Minister’s Questions while the Prime Minister attends the Nato summit in Turkey. The live political updates focus on Nigel Farage’s decision to trigger a by-election in Clacton amid scrutiny of his finances, prompting criticism from ministers and opposition figures who describe the move as a stunt. All major parties have declined to contest the by-election. Additional updates include statements from Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte affirming US commitment to the alliance and reactions from senior UK ministers at the summit.

Nigel Farage announced his resignation as MP for Clacton-on-Sea to trigger a by-election, positioning it as a confrontation between voters and the political establishment amid scrutiny over undeclared financial support. He denied wrongdoing and criticised media treatment of his family while pledging to continue Reform UK’s political campaign. Farage faces calls for further investigation following reports of undeclared assistance from George Cottrell and a separate ongoing probe into a £5 million gift from donor Christopher Harborne.

Critics accuse Andy Burnham of planning to revive a proposed deal to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius in exchange for leasing back the Diego Garcia military base, arguing it undermines UK national security and imposes large costs on taxpayers. The agreement, paused after objections from Donald Trump, faces opposition from Conservative figures and Reform UK, who claim the move would benefit China due to its connections with Mauritius. Concerns focus on the financial burden, strategic implications, and perceived weakness in Labour’s foreign policy approach.

Nigel Farage rejected allegations that he failed to declare financial support from George Cottrell, calling the reports an establishment attack on Reform UK. Party spokesman Robert Jenrick argued no rules were broken because the assistance occurred before Farage became an MP. The scrutiny comes as Parliament’s standards commissioner investigates an undeclared £5 million gift from Christopher Harborne, which could lead to sanctions if rules were breached. Labour and Liberal Democrat figures urged a broader inquiry, accusing Farage of lacking transparency, while Reform UK maintains the controversy is politically motivated.

Debate intensifies over the future of the UK’s state pension triple lock as Andy Burnham prepares to enter Downing Street, with advisers and former officials calling it fiscally unsustainable and urging reform. Labour has pledged to maintain the policy only until the end of the current parliament, raising questions about whether it will continue beyond 2029. Critics argue the triple lock is costly and unfair to younger generations, while supporters say it is vital for protecting pensioners from hardship. Rising fiscal pressures and past backlash over cuts to winter fuel payments highlight the political risks. Proposals for alternatives include a double lock or a smoothed earnings link. Burnham must decide whether to commit to retaining or replacing the triple lock in Labour’s next election manifesto.

Tony Blair’s think tank warned Andy Burnham against raising capital gains tax by aligning it with income tax, arguing the move would discourage entrepreneurs and undermine investment. Analyst Guy Ward‑Jackson said the change would give the UK the highest top rate in Europe and worsen the country’s risk‑aversion problem. Burnham has indicated possible flexibility on tax despite Labour’s pledge not to raise major levies on workers.

JD Vance criticized recent instability in UK leadership, arguing that frequent changes in prime ministers show the need for structural political reform. He expressed admiration for Britain but said it has been poorly led. Vance said he hopes Andy Burnham or another future leader can deliver needed change and affirmed the US will work with any UK prime minister. His recent remarks on immigration and policing have caused controversy, including comments linking the murder of Henry Nowak to migration policies, which Downing Street rejected.

A GB News interview featured Camilla Tominey pressing Labour minister James Murray on whether Andy Burnham has a mandate to govern as he moves toward becoming Labour leader and prime minister. Tominey highlighted reported tax proposals, including higher capital gains tax and a mansion tax, arguing these changes were not endorsed in the 2024 election and suggesting a general election is needed. Murray defended Burnham’s legitimacy, citing his recent by-election victory and commitment to the 2024 manifesto. Burnham remains the sole candidate to replace Keir Starmer and is expected to enter Downing Street soon.

Debate intensifies over the future of the state pension triple lock as Andy Burnham prepares to become prime minister, with economic advisers and political figures warning of its long‑term fiscal unsustainability. Critics argue the policy is unfair to younger generations and increasingly costly, while supporters emphasise its role in preventing pensioner poverty. Labour has pledged to maintain the triple lock until the end of the current parliament, but uncertainty remains over its inclusion in the next manifesto. Pressure is heightened by past controversies over pensioner benefits and by competing party commitments ahead of the next general election.

Nigel Farage warned that illegal migrants landing at Holland-on-Sea show growing security concerns as the National Crime Agency investigates a boat that dropped six people on the shoreline. Four men, including the pilot, were arrested on suspicion of facilitating illegal immigration, while the six arrivals were detained by Immigration Enforcement. The operation involved Essex Police, Border Force and HM Coastguard and comes amid rising Channel crossings this year.

A £15 billion defence investment plan announced by Keir Starmer faces a major funding gap, with No 10 unable to specify where £10.3 billion in required cuts will come from. Departments are expected to reduce major project spending, and road‑building and hospital programmes may be affected. The situation creates pressure for Andy Burnham as he prepares to enter Downing Street, while critics argue the plan lacks sufficient funding clarity and delays essential defence capabilities.

Angela Rayner voiced support for Andy Burnham’s plans to shift power away from Westminster and criticised central government structures for fostering bureaucracy and inefficiency. She urged Labour to pursue deeper structural reform and warned that caution would not counter the rise of Reform UK or public disillusionment. Her comments come as speculation grows over Burnham’s potential Cabinet appointments ahead of a likely move into Downing Street.

Coastguard rescue officers warn that ending hourly payments for callouts under a revised volunteer model could reduce staffing and endanger lives. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is implementing the change after a court ruling classifying officers as workers, prompting a shift intended to preserve flexibility and volunteer status. Campaigners, including officers and supportive MPs, argue the loss of remuneration will make participation unsustainable, risking slower emergency response times.

Kemi Badenoch attacked Prime Minister Keir Starmer during Prime Minister’s Questions, arguing that Labour’s £15 billion defence investment plan leaves a £5 billion gap and fails to meet military needs. She cited the former defence secretary’s warning about operational risks and accused Starmer of underfunding the armed forces. Starmer defended the plan, saying it would raise defence spending to £300 billion over four years and had been endorsed by senior military leaders, while accusing the previous Conservative government of weakening the forces. Badenoch pressed him on how the shortfall would be covered and whether Andy Burnham was aware of the financial implications.

Polling shows Andy Burnham’s unfavourable ratings reaching a record 43 percent while his positive ratings stand at 32 percent, resulting in a net score of minus 11. Perceptions of his competence, principles, and trustworthiness have fallen since May, though he still scores better than Keir Starmer on key personal measures. A large share of respondents remain unsure about him. The polling was released as Burnham outlined a plan to devolve power from Whitehall in a bid to raise living standards ahead of a potential unopposed path to becoming prime minister on July 20.