Key facts
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham will argue that bringing more essential services under public control is the only way to improve UK economic growth.
- Burnham will state that the cost of everyday services is hindering the economy and promise a plan to manage these costs.
- The government is considering legislation to make it easier to bring struggling utilities into public ownership.
- Burnham will also address decisions on immigration, North Sea drilling, and electoral reform.
- Justice Secretary Alex Norris will present plans to reduce early prisoner release eligibility.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to address the House of Commons, emphasizing his commitment to bringing more essential services under public control as a strategy for boosting the UK economy. This marks his first frontbench address in 16 years and comes six weeks into his premiership. Burnham plans to argue that public ownership will unlock investment, jobs, and growth, and that the rising cost of everyday services is a drag on the economy.
The Prime Minister is considering legislation to simplify the process of bringing struggling utilities, such as Thames Water, under government ownership. This initiative is central to his vision for the country. Burnham will also face critical decisions regarding potential changes to the immigration bill to exempt carers and address pressure for electoral reform. A divisive decision on further North Sea drilling is also anticipated.
Burnham intends to use his speech to "bring back hope" and signal a willingness to work constructively with opposition parties. He is expected to deliver a critical assessment of privatized services, arguing they have not served the public interest and are neither reliable nor affordable. Examples of bringing bus routes under public control, such as in the West Midlands and Liverpool City Region, will be highlighted.
In addition to outlining his priorities, Burnham will face a two-hour grilling from MPs on policies announced over the summer, including a VAT cut on energy bills, £2 bus fares, the scrapping of digital ID, expanded devolution, and a national care service plan. Opposition MPs are expected to question the funding of these pledges and how Burnham plans to address a £4.7bn gap in the defence investment plan.
Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Alex Norris will present government plans to reduce the number of prisoners eligible for early release, a move that could exacerbate prison capacity issues. Later in the week, Burnham will face Kemi Badenoch in his first Prime Minister's Questions. He will also navigate calls from nearly 100 Labour MPs to toughen the representation of the people bill, particularly concerning electoral reform and party donation caps. The Liberal Democrats have pledged full support for an amendment calling for an electoral reform commission within 100 days, framing it as a test of Burnham's political character.
Recent polls show Labour holding a four-point lead over Reform, with the Conservatives one point behind. Burnham's net approval rating has reportedly increased by three points in the last fortnight.