Andy Burnham has officially become the United Kingdom’s prime minister after Keir Starmer formally stepped down, marking another leadership change in British politics.
Buckingham Palace confirmed that Burnham met with King Charles III, who invited him to form a new government following Starmer’s departure from office.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street in his first address as prime minister, Burnham described his appointment as “a moment for reflection and new resolution”, while acknowledging public dissatisfaction with the government.
“I hear you. We have not been good enough and we need to be better. We will be,” he said.
Burnham pledged to restore stability, saying Britain must prove it can “regain our stability once again”, adding that his administration would introduce “a new political model”.
The new prime minister also announced plans to unveil a 10-year vision for Britain later this year, setting out his long-term priorities for the country.
As part of his immediate agenda, Burnham said his government would introduce measures to give households more “breathing space” amid the cost-of-living pressures, while outlining how those plans would be funded.
“The care of people will be at the heart of everything I will do,” he said, adding: “I will give this my all.”
One of Burnham’s first major responsibilities will be appointing a new Cabinet, although it remains unclear how many ministers from the outgoing administration will retain their positions.
Earlier, former prime minister Keir Starmer said he was leaving office “with good grace” and “a smile”.
Burnham becomes the United Kingdom’s fourth prime minister in five years.
