In his first Prime Minister’s Questions, Andy Burnham addressed the issue of the number of young people in their twenties receiving benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The Labour Party leader stated his discomfort with the current figures and signalled his intention to reduce welfare dependency among this age group.
During the session, Edward Leigh, the longest-serving member of the Commons representing the Conservative Party, urged Mr Burnham to collaborate with opposition parties to address what he described as a “bloated welfare bill.”
Responding, Mr Burnham said, “I can’t defend a position where too many people in their 20s are on benefits. But what I do say is, why is that the case?” He pointed to shortcomings in the education system, suggesting it does not adequately prepare all young people for future success. He emphasised the need to create more work-related opportunities and increase mental health support beginning at age 16 as part of the solution.
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Shortly after this exchange, Mr Burnham announced that No 10 North will work towards establishing a devolution deal for Cornwall.
Ben Maguire, Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, welcomed the Prime Minister’s remarks, describing them as promising and a positive shift following months of Cornwall feeling overlooked in discussions about devolution. He noted the government’s recognition that Cornwall should not be compelled to have a mayor or to merge with another authority to access promised powers and funding.
Leigh Frost, leader of Cornwall Council and also from the Liberal Democrats, said, “When I met the Prime Minister here in Cornwall, I made sure he heard our position loud and clear, including our red lines on a forced mayor or a merger with Devon.” He added, “It’s encouraging that he’s listened. There’s a lot of detail still to work through, but this feels like a genuine opportunity to get the right deal for Cornwall, and I’m glad he has used his first speech in the Commons to set this out.”