Newly sworn-in UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged immediate action to ease the cost-of-living crisis, promising to unveil a package of support measures beginning Tuesday.
In his first address after taking office, Burnham described his administration as a “circuit breaker for Britain” and said the country needed a fresh direction backed by a long-term vision.
“This moment will be a circuit breaker for Britain,” Burnham declared, adding that his government would soon present a 10-year plan to drive national renewal.
The new prime minister also promised to end rough sleeping, increase the construction of council homes and honour the United Kingdom’s defence commitments.
Burnham, who becomes Britain’s fifth prime minister in four years, is expected to begin appointing his Cabinet later on Monday following the resignation of Prisons Minister Lord Timpson.
His appointment follows the resignation of Keir Starmer, who formally stepped down after delivering a farewell speech outside 10 Downing Street, saying he was leaving office “with good grace” and “a smile.”
Burnham’s first days in office are expected to focus on addressing rising living costs while setting out his government’s broader economic and social agenda.
