Burnham rules out early election if he becomes PM

During an online Ask Me Anything (AMA) session on Reddit, Burnham addressed speculation about an early election, stating, "I can knock that dead." He also confirmed he would not scrap the triple lock policy on state pensions, citing the manifesto commitment. He expressed a desire for a closer relationship with the EU and suggested reforms to the UK's electoral system, advocating for proportional representation.

Burnham also committed to adhering to Labour's pledges regarding taxation, including not raising VAT, income tax, or national insurance, and maintaining fiscal discipline. However, he suggested there might be room for adjustments, such as increasing business rates on warehouses to fund tax cuts for pubs and high-street businesses. The issue of funding an increase in defence spending, a plan previously outlined by Sir Keir Starmer, was also noted as a significant challenge.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch challenged Burnham to face tougher questions and act like a prime minister, a challenge Burnham countered by highlighting his engagement with constituents. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage had previously called for an election as soon as possible following Starmer's resignation.