Andy Burnham is scheduled to address the nation with a key announcement on the cost of living crisis today. Following his inaugural speech as Prime Minister on Monday, the Labour leader pledged urgent support to ease the financial strain on households.
While Burnham plans to unveil a comprehensive 10-year strategy later this year, today’s announcement will focus on immediate relief measures designed to offer families some much-needed breathing space.
Burnham’s Cabinet is set to convene for the first time at 12:30 pm, making it likely that the cost of living statement will come shortly afterward. This timing allows Cabinet members, meeting alongside the new Prime Minister for the first time, to finalize any adjustments.
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“I intend to provide people with tangible help starting tomorrow, including how we will fund these initiatives,” Burnham stated yesterday.
His newly formed Cabinet boasts key figures such as John Healey, appointed Chancellor. Healey, formerly Defence Secretary who resigned over funding concerns, brings a wealth of experience, having served as an MP since 1997 and as a Treasury minister under Tony Blair.
Burnham emphasized fiscal responsibility, saying, “This is the fair and sustainable path to reduce the welfare bill, adhere to our fiscal rules, and keep our defence commitments to international allies.”
Recent Cabinet reshuffles include Bridget Phillipson retaining her Cabinet role as Minister for Women and Equalities and Angela Rayner’s reappointment as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. Rayner had previously resigned from this position and as Deputy Prime Minister last September amid a dispute over stamp duty.
Lucy Powell replaces Phillipson as Education Secretary, while Jonathan Reynolds takes over as Business Secretary from Peter Kyle. Anneliese Midgley steps in as Chief Whip.
Yvette Cooper, newly appointed Health Secretary, expressed her honor at returning to health leadership nearly three decades after working on the first NHS cancer plan. In a social media statement, Cooper highlighted her commitment to improving maternity services, advancing social care reform, and supporting the National Health Service, which she described as Labour’s proudest achievement.
Cooper also praised her experience at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, acknowledging the global partnerships fostered during her tenure, which she believes strengthen the UK at home.