Key facts
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham will deliver his first Labour Party conference speech on Tuesday.
- The conference theme is 'Hope Again'.
- Burnham's speech is expected to focus on a 10-Year Plan for the UK, emphasizing affordability and public control.
- A commission to examine electoral reform may be announced.
- Labour's union funder, Unite, is calling for immediate cost-of-living measures, such as a cap on energy prices.
- Speculation exists within the Labour Party about a potential early general election, possibly next spring.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to deliver his debut leader's speech at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, with the event themed 'Hope Again'. Burnham has indicated his speech will clearly define his vision and direction for the country, focusing on long-term solutions and making life more affordable.
Key themes expected include a renewed emphasis on public control of essential services, building national resilience, and reforming social care. Burnham may also announce a commission to examine electoral reform, aligning with his leadership campaign promise of 'a new politics' focused on problem-solving. The conclusions of a review on youth employment by former Labour minister Alan Milburn are also anticipated.
Policy announcements are planned throughout the conference. Labour's largest union funder, Unite, is pushing for immediate action on the cost of living, suggesting measures like a cap on energy prices or a windfall tax on banks. Chancellor John Healey will also deliver his first conference speech, with attention on whether his approach will signal a break from previous Treasury policy.
Speculation about an early general election persists within the Labour Party, with some believing Burnham is preparing for a spring vote. However, Downing Street maintains that no such plans are in place. Recent polling suggests a modest 'Burnham bounce' for Labour, with their support in the mid-twenties, while Reform UK and the Conservatives are polling closely.