Key facts
- Andy Burnham has ruled out calling an early general election if he becomes prime minister.
- Burnham stated he would work to the 2024 manifesto.
- Burnham confirmed he would not scrap the triple lock policy.
- Burnham expressed support for replacing the first-past-the-post system with proportional representation.
- Burnham indicated he would build on existing work for a closer relationship with the EU.
Andy Burnham, the sole candidate to replace Sir Keir Starmer as leader of the Labour Party, has stated he will not call an early general election if he becomes prime minister. Burnham, who could take office on July 20, said he would work to the 2024 manifesto and serve a full term.
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.