The second full week of Andy Burnham's premiership saw the government continue to establish its footing following Labour's recent change in leadership. While ministers focused on setting out their domestic priorities, Burnham also sought to demonstrate his leadership, beyond Westminster, on the international stage.
The week began with Burnham visiting a Royal Navy base alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The visit highlighted the UK's continued support for Ukraine and gave the new Prime Minister an opportunity to reinforce his commitment to Britain's role in European security.
At home, the government announced a new package of measures aimed at reducing the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEETs). Ministers said the plans would strengthen technical education, improve links between employers and colleges, and help more young people develop the skills needed to find work. The announcement fits into Burnham's wider aim of boosting economic growth by investing in skills and giving local leaders more control over how funding is spent.
Social care was also high on the political agenda. In a major speech, Burnham set out his ambition to reform the sector, arguing better social care is essential to improving public services more broadly. While the government is yet to publish detailed proposals, the speech signalled social care will be one of its key priorities over the coming months.
Later in the week, Labour received a political boost after winning the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election on 30th July, which was triggered by Burnham becoming Prime Minister, with the party’s candidate Bev Craig achieving a combined total of 309,525 votes. Labour welcomed the result with government figures hoping it shows support for the party remains strong despite the recent leadership change.
Economic policy also came into focus after Chancellor John Healey confirmed the government's first Budget under Burnham will take place on 28th October. Announcing the date, Healey pledged to move "power and money out of Westminster and into every postcode around Britain", reinforcing the government's focus on devolution and regional investment ahead of the autumn.
Looking ahead, attention will increasingly turn to the Clacton by-election on 13th August. Although Labour is not standing a candidate, the contest will still be closely watched across Westminster as an early test of Nigel Farage's ability to retain public support following the controversy surrounding his resignation and the ongoing investigations into his finances.
Alongside electoral politics, ministers are expected to remain focused on domestic challenges, particularly the wildfires and drought conditions affecting parts of the country. With forecasts suggesting the hot weather could continue, the government is likely to face growing pressure over its response to climate resilience, water shortages and emergency planning.
Over the coming weeks Burnham is expected to continue championing his devolution agenda, arguing greater powers to local areas strengthens the argument for introducing a written constitution. While constitutional reform is unlikely to happen quickly, the Prime Minister appears keen to make it a central part of his long-term vision for changing how the country is governed.
Headlines
- Britain could face food shortages as drought continues, farmers warn - The Guardian
- Labour overtakes Reform UK in opinion polls for first time in more than a year - Financial Times
- Lucy Powell: Schooling 'straightjacket' has left million youngsters behind - The Times
What's on in Parliament
Parliament is currently in recess. The House of Lords returns on the 31st of August, and the House of Commons returns on the 1st of September.
Consultations
- VAT treatment of land for social housing – closes 18th August
- Consultation on banning unlicensed gambling sponsorship – closes 9th September
- Equal pay and pay discrimination – closes 27th October
Statistics
- Rail passenger numbers and crowding on weekdays in major cities in England and Wales: 2025 – published 28th July
- Weekly road fuel prices – published 28th July
- Community and Engagement Survey 2025/26: libraries – published 31st July