Labour politician, leader of Manchester City Council
Labour has elected Andy Burnham as party leader, linking his regional track record to a bid for prime minister. He vows to devolve power from London to the regions, move parts of the PM’s office to Manchester, and push a major housing program with public control of essential services. The changes come as Reform UK and the Green party vie for influence amid a volatile political landscape.
Labour has surged in multiple polls this week, reaching the lead in More in Common, Survation, and YouGov/Sky figures amid ongoing controversy surrounding Nigel Farage and Reform. Prime Minister Burnham’s leadership is cited as a factor, while Reform faces scrutiny over undeclared donations and a high-profile by-election in Clacton.
Labour has moved into a narrow lead in the latest polls after Andy Burnham’s leadership win. The government has introduced a high-stakes cabinet reshuffle with fresh faces and a sizeable energy tax cut to ease living costs, while Reform UK faces fresh scrutiny over funding.
Australian One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has drawn international attention during a European tour, meeting far-right figures and causing domestic debate over immigration and national identity. While Hanson defends her stance, critics urge clearer adherence to Australian values and policy commitments.
The by-election to replace Andy Burnham as Greater Manchester’s mayor has become the region’s largest electoral test yet. Bev Craig, Manchester City Council’s leader, is seen as Labour’s likely winner in the second round, aided by a Burnham-backed national mood. Reform UK and the Greens are contesting second place, while turnout and local dynamics shape the outcome.
Andy Burnham faces mounting expectations as Labour's leadership transition looms. Reports from multiple outlets suggest renewed calls for credible direction and delivery, with key policy questions shaping the coming leadership reshuffle.
Andy Burnham is moving toward Westminster with plans to devolve power and shift growth to every postcode. Labour factions debate welfare, devolution and the economy as unions shape the policy landscape ahead of a potential premiership.
Labour's Andy Burnham has delivered a speech at the People’s History Museum in Manchester, outlining a pathway to devolve power and resources to local leaders and promise a decade of renewal. He argues that Westminster is broken and voters deserve hope and local control as he positions himself as a potential prime minister-in-waiting.
The government has announced a 20% cut in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England from April next year, excluding the very largest venues. The move is funded by reviewing reliefs for businesses that do not contribute positively to local communities and by cracking down on online marketplaces that avoid VAT. The policy aims to support hospitality on high streets as part of a broader cost-of-living package.