Andy Burnham has paused the early release scheme for some prisoners, which was due to start in September.
It comes just hours after the new Prime Minister slashed business rates by 20% for pubs, clubs, and live music venues across London from April next year.
The early prison release policy would have seen around 6,000 offenders in England and Wales freed earlier from UK prisons.
In a statement, Mr Burnham said: “Keeping the public safe will always be my top priority.
“I am working closely with the new justice secretary and have instructed my team to put a pause on the changes that were due to start in September.”
The statement added that no prisoners would be released until an “urgent review” is conducted.
Earlier today, Downing Street said nearly 32,000 hospitality businesses will have business rates cut, saving a typical pub some £1,100 annually.
The overhaul of business rates will be funded through a review of reliefs for businesses that “do not make a positive contribution to local communities” such as vape shops and a crackdown on online marketplaces that do not comply with tax obligations, No 10 said.
Since becoming Prime Minister on Monday, Andy Burnham has made four sweeping reforms to policy in the UK, including cutting VAT on household electricity bills and capping bus fares at £2.
Follow the latest updates below...
Key Points
- Andy Burnham’s Cabinet: Full list of who's in and who's out
- Who are all the Government ministers appointed by the new Prime Minister?
- Who is Andy Burnham's wife Marie-France van Heel?
- Burnham pours cold water on hopes of increasing income tax allowance threshold
- Will Andy Burnham spark an exodus of London’s middle classes?
- What exactly has Andy Burnham said about increasing the £12,570 personal allowance?
What would the early release scheme have meant?
15:40 , Niva Yadav
Under the early release scheme, thousands of offenders in England and Wales would have been freed earlier.
Offenders on fixed terms would have been released after a third of their sentence, rather than half.
The policy was intended to reduce prison overcrowding, but Mr Burnham has now put the scheme on pause until an urgent review is conducted.
Andy Burnham pauses early prison release scheme
15:06 , Niva Yadav
In yet another sweeping announcement, Andy Burnham has paused the early release scheme for some prisoners, which was due to start in September.
The police would have seen thousands of offenders in England and Wales freed earlier.
Mr Burnham said: “Keeping the public safe will always be my top priority
“I am working closely with the new justice secretary and have instructed my team to put a pause on changes that were due to start in September.”
The statement added that no prisoners will be released under this policy until an urgent review is conducted.
A recap: what you need to know
14:30 , Niva Yadav
Here’s a recap of what you need to know as Andy Burnham settles into No10.
- Business rates will be slashed by 20% for pubs, clubs, and live music venues across England
- This will come into force in April next year
- It comes after Downing Street announced plans to cap bus fares at £2 outside of London and plans to scrap VAT on household electricity bills in October.
- Details of the business rates discount are expected to be disclosed in the new Budget
- Downing Street insists the plans are “fully funded” but sceptics have raised concerns
- Industry figures have warned that the measures do not go far enough and exclude restaurants, hotels, and other businesses.
- Burnham is expected to speak more on the policy later today ahead of meeting the leaders of Scotland and Wales.
- During a visit to a pub in Essex, Burnham added that gambling arcades would also be targeted to fund business rates relief
Andy Burnham to hold first meeting at No10 North on Friday
14:15 , Niva Yadav
Andy Burnham will hold his first meeting at No 10 North on Friday, he has said.
Speaking at The Hare pub in Harlow, Essex, the Prime Minister said: “Tomorrow, we’ll be meeting in Manchester in No 10 North.
“And whole purpose of No 10 North is to put more power into every postcode in the land, including the postcodes of Harlow.
“How do we get power out of Whitehall and Westminster, into the hands of people at a local level, so that they can make a difference and turn things around?”
Heron House will become No10 North.
Burnham has had 'a really good first few days' says Sir Sadiq Khan
14:00 , Niva Yadav
Sadiq Khan has welcomed Andy Burnham’s cut to business rates, adding that the new PM has had a “really good first few days” in the new job.
The London Mayor said he expects to see more policies in the coming days showing that Mr Burnham “understands the challenges people are facing.”
You can watch the full interview here:
Top chefs warn business rates cut 'won't make a difference'
13:45 , Niva Yadav
Top chefs in the hospitality sector have warned that Mr Burnham’s cut on business rates “won’t really make a difference.”
TV chef Tom Kerridge said: "It doesn't go far enough but it does show that there is an understanding that hospitality needs a hand, especially smaller venues.”
Mr Kerridge launched a nationwide campaign earlier this month, calling for hospitality to be cut to 10 per cent.
Other chefs, such as Great British Menu winner Nick Beardshaw also branded the move as a “political manouvre”, explaining it was “an absolute drop in the ocean” when it comes to helping the hospitality sector.
'We're bringing the North to the South' says Burnham
13:30 , Niva Yadav
As Andy Burnham celebrated his decision to slash business rates for pubs, he poured a pint for his new Chancellor John Healey.
Handing Mr Healey a McMullen’s East Indian Pale Ale, the Prime Minister said: “There you go John.
“This is my thank you to you for being our Chancellor.”
Mr Healey replied that the drink had “almost a northern head” on it.
“We’re bringing the North to the South,” Mr Burnham replied.
London business chief calls for expansion of discount
13:30 , Niva Yadav
Concerns continue to be raised about the effectiveness of Burnham’s 20% cut on business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues.
Karim Fatehi, CEO of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the cut, especially for London’s economy.
However, he added that the long-term solution must go beyond the current offering.
He said: “Firms across the capital, particularly SMEs, continue to grapple with high employment costs, inflationary pressures and an outdated business rates system that discourages investment in physical premises.
“Retailers, hotels, manufacturers, office-based businesses and other firms operating from bricks-and-mortar locations continue to face an unfair tax burden that makes it harder to hire, invest and grow.”
Burnham defends funding concerns
13:21 , Niva Yadav
Andy Burnham has defended concerns about funding his slashing spree.
In three days, the Prime Minister has vowed to scrap VAT on electricity bills, cap bus fares at £2, and slash business rates for pubs by 20%.
He told reporters that gambling arcades causing “harm to communities” would see their business rate relief slashed.
“This is funded from within a change to business rates, because you know you can’t see all businesses the same,” he said.
The Labour leader added: “They will obviously pay higher rates to give the ability then to cut business rates for pubs and other venues that bring people together and bring wider benefits to high streets and communities.”
'The cavalry is coming', says Burnham
13:19 , Niva Yadav
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said pubs should know “the cavalry is coming” as he described his plans to slash VAT for pubs, clubs, and live music venues.
He explained that this was just a “first step” in his plans for the sector.
“You know, this is to me our heritage. It’s working class culture. Once pubs are gone, they don’t come back. So we’ve just got to signal what support when we can. That’s why I’ve made this early announcement. This is a significant cut to the business rates that pubs and other venues pay,” he said.
Mr Burnham added that the UK cannot afford to lose any more pubs.
He described them as “the heart of the high street” and vowed to be a “defender” for them.
Business rates cut slammed by economists
13:13 , Niva Yadav
Mr Burnham’s business rates shakeup has been slammed by economists.
Stuart Adam, senior economist at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said: "‘Whatever the Government wants to achieve with the business rates system, this complex, ever-changing mish-mash of policies cannot be a sensible way to go about it.
"Business rates have gone from being one of the most stable and simple taxes in the system to one of the least. We seem to be moving ever closer to a system in which the government gives every business a score out of ten each year according to how much it likes the business that year, and sets its tax rate that year accordingly.
"A coherent view of what business rates is intended to achieve and how it should be designed to achieve that is sorely needed."
Badenoch fears lack of UK co-operation with Israel under Burnham
12:57 , Niva Yadav
Earlier today, Kemi Badenoch expressed worry about the UK’s relationship with Israel under Burnham.
The Conservative Party leader told a press conference: : “This excessive focus on what’s going on in Israel and Palestine is because that’s what their backbenchers are concerned about.”
New Prime Minister and Labour leader Mr Burnham recently apologised for his party’s initial response to the country’s actions in Gaza and said Labour must “do better”.
His newly appointed Defence Secretary, Wes Streeting, said this week that Israel had “fallen short” of the standards the UK should expect.
Ms Badenoch said: “Whether people like it or not, there are British citizens alive today because of intelligence that Israel gave us.
“I am very worried about a lack of co-operation because this Government wants to please its backbenchers.
“They need to do what is right for the country, not what is right for the Labour Party.”
Prime Minister joined by Chancellor of the Exchequer
12:33 , Niva Yadav
The newly appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer has joined Andy Burnham as the pair enjoy a pint at the Essex pub.
The purpose of the visit is to spotlight what Mr Burnham’s government will be doing for the pub industry.
Andy Burnham arrives at pub in Essex
12:28 , Niva Yadav
Andy Burnham has arrived at a pub in Essex.
The new Prime Minister has paid a visit to the Hare pub in Harlow just hours after announcing a 20% cut to business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues.
How much will pubs save under Burnham's new discount?
12:15 , Niva Yadav
Doubts have been raised about the discount announced by Downing Street this morning.
It is estimated that the average pub will save some £1,100 annually. But some have asked whether this is enough.
One hotel owner, Steve Perez, told BBC Radio 4 that the relief would not make any “material difference” and added that most pubs serve food, questioning why the discount has not been extended to restaurants.
Another pub owner, Iain Hoskins, said that only one of his five venues qualified for the 15% cut last year, because they didn’t have the word pub in their name.
Timeline of business rates reforms
11:45 , Niva Yadav
Since Covid-19, both the Labour and Conservative governments have gone back and forth on business rates in the hospitality sector.
If you’re trying to keep up, here’s a timeline of how rates have shifted under both parties in recent years.
What have the opposition parties said?
11:31 , Niva Yadav
In addition to Kemi Badenoch calling for the abolition of business rates, other party leaders have responded to Mr Burnham’s third announcement.
Daisy Cooper, deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, has said: ““This is a welcome first step but still falls short of Labour’s promise to overhaul the broken business rates system.
“We Lib Dems urge the PM to take up our plan to save our high streets, including an overhaul of business rates, removing ‘ghost landlords’ & rejuvenating town centres.”
Meanwhile, Zack Polanski, leader of the Greens, said the reform was a “welcome respite.”
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, is yet to comment on Labour’s business rates cut.
I've always said i would welcome Labour when they do the right thing, and today's business relief for venues and pubs is a welcome respite for an industry at the heart of our communities. pic.twitter.com/OzFqUQzumh
— Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) July 23, 2026
'Gary Lineker is very welcome to pay more tax' says Badenoch
11:15 , Niva Yadav
Kemi Badenoch has said Gary Lineker is “very welcome to pay more tax”.
It comes as sports broadcaster and former footballer Mr Lineker, alongside 120 other UK-based millionaire signatories, called on Mr Burnham to impose higher taxes on their wealth.
Ms Badenoch told reporters: “He’s very welcome to pay more tax. He can write a cheque to the Treasury. No one’s stopping him.”
She added that tax rises do not increase the standard of living and focus should lie on “backing business”.
'People will pay the price for Burnham's plans for the country,' says Badenoch
11:00 , Niva Yadav
Kemi Badenoch said that ‘people will pay the price for Burnham’s plans for the country.
She urged the Prime Minister to stop acting like the Mayor of Manchester, while she accused him of not finding big enough solutions to Britain’s problems.
You can watch some of the key lines from her speech here:
'We have seen this movie before. Tax rises are coming' claims Badenoch
10:50 , Niva Yadav
Kemi Badenoch has accused Andy Burnham of still behaving like he is the Mayor of Manchester and not the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
She warned that “we have seen this movie before” and that tax rises were on their way without bigger solutions.
'Is that it?' says Kemi Badenoch
10:37 , Niva Yadav
Conservative Party leader has asked whether Andy Burnham is doing enough to support the fifth largest economy in the world.
She said: “Cost of living pressures are real, but the problems go way beyond bus fares and VAT on bills
“Families are struggling. Young people are worrying about whether they will ever earn enough to buy a home. Some are leaving the country in search of a better future.
“Businesses are closing. People are working harder but feeling poorer.”
Slamming the new Prime Minister’s reforms, she added: “Andy Burnham’s ambitions for Britain are too small. Big problems need bigger long term solutions.”
Ms Badenoch said she found herself asking, “Is that it?”
What does hospitality VAT look like in the rest of Europe?
10:35 , Niva Yadav
In addition to business rates being slashed, many in the hospitality sector have called on the government to reduce VAT to bring it in line with the rest of Europe.
British chef Tom Kerridge has called for hospitality VAT to be reduced from 20% to 10%.
But what does hospitality VAT look like in the rest of Europe?
Germany: 7%
France: 10%
Italy: 10%
Spain: 10%
Republic of Ireland: 9%
Chief investment strategist at the Wealth Club, Susannah Streeter explained that without a reduction in VAT for the sector, today’s measures “look more like a small top-up than a game-changing pint of support.”
She added that higher wage bills and national insurance contributions continue to squeeze margins in the industry.
Kemi Badenoch to make speech in London
10:21 , Niva Yadav
Aside from Andy Burnham’s reforms, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch is set to make a speech in London this morning.
We’ll bring you the latest here.
What about restaurants?
10:15 , Niva Yadav
While pubs, clubs and music venues have had two rounds of relief, restaurants and hotels have been left without any.
Pubs were granted a 15% cut in April and a further 20% today.
So, it is no surprise that there is growing resentment in the restaurant industry.
This has been combined with increase in minimum wage, national insurance, and alcohol duty - all of which are now taking their toll on the hospitality sector.
'Not far enough', says Tom Kerridge
10:00 , Niva Yadav
Tom Kerridge has said Andy Burnham’s cuts do not go far enough.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, he said: "It doesn't go far enough but it does show that there is an understanding that hospitality needs a hand, especially smaller venues.
"It will come as welcome news," he continues. "But £1,000 on a yearly revenue doesn't really make a difference.
"But it shows the government are beginning to listen and has an understanding that hospitality is at the core and heart of so many communities."
Kerridge has been leading the UK Hospitality campaign to cut hospitality VAT to 10%. Dubbed #VATsTheProblem, the campaign launched just weeks ago to bring the UK back in line with Europe.
'Time to support cherished local spaces' says PM
09:45 , Niva Yadav
The Prime Minister has said it was time to support “cherished local spaces” in a post on X, hours after announcing his business rates reduction.
I’m giving thousands of pubs, clubs and music venues a 20% cut in business rates.
— Andy Burnham (@andyburnham) July 23, 2026
I won’t stand by while these cherished local spaces disappear, replaced by boarded-up windows and ‘For Sale’ signs.
They’re the heart of our communities and it’s time we backed them.
Hotel owner says 20% cut "won't make any material difference"
09:30 , Niva Yadav
A hotel owner has said Andy Burnham’s cut to business rates “won’t make any material difference” after the rates were re-evaluated and increased for some in April.
Asked about the new policy, Steve Perez, who owns two hotels, both including a pub and a restaurant, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “Our business rates went up to about 130% (in April).
“So this tiny, well, obviously it’s welcome £1,000, but this won’t make any material difference to any pub.
“And it’s interesting to know that they haven’t talked about restaurants and hotels because bear in mind most pubs these days serve food, many pubs also have accommodation.
“And we’ve had increases in national insurance, we’ve had the EPR, the tax no one’s ever heard of – extended producer responsibility.
“And it’s a little bit like the supermarkets putting up the prices and then saying they’ve reduced them.”
Music Venue Trust calls for expansion of business rates cut
09:15 , Niva Yadav
The Music Venue Trust has called for the relief announced today to be expanded to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The charity, which acts to protect UK grassroots music venues, has also urged the government to reconsider the eligibility criteria to encompass live music spaces of all sizes.
Chief executive Mark Davyd welcomed the announcement, but added: “There remain some issues of implementation of previous reliefs, and we will work with colleagues in government to ensure that all grassroots music venues in England are recognised and eligible.
“We call on Senedd, Holyrood, and the Northern Ireland Assembly to swiftly confirm they will match this much needed support through Barnett formula consequentials. Venues in Wales, Scotland and England must be confident of a level playing field of economic conditions for touring across the UK.”
Mr Burnham is set to meet with the first ministers of Scotland and Wales later today for the first time since becoming PM.
Tory minister calls Burnham cuts 'pitiful'
09:00 , Niva Yadav
Conservative deputy chairman and shadow crime and policing minister Matt Vickers has raised doubts on the financing of the 20% cut to business rates, deeming it “the third unfunded spending commitment in three days”.
Speaking on GB News, Mr Vickers said: “When this Government came to office, this Labour Government, those businesses, all leisure, hospitality, and retail businesses, on the high streets, those small businesses, were getting a 75% reduction in their business rates.
“They took away the 75% and now he’s telling them he’s giving them 20% back, and he doesn’t know how he’s going to pay for it.
“It’s pitiful. We need to be realistic in how we support these businesses.”
Burnham’s government have said scrapping the digital ID scheme, drawing from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, and cracking down on businesses such as vape shops, will fund the cuts.
What does the open letter from the UK millionaires say?
08:45 , Niva Yadav
The “Proud to Pay” letter to the Prime Minister, organised by the Patriotic Millionaires has called on the government to raise taxes on wealth.
Gary Lineker is one of 120 UK-based millionaires calling for higher taxes.
The letter reads: “As millionaires we have a clear message for you, our new Prime Minister: tax us. We are proud to pay and here to stay.
“We know that wealth and power has been concentrated in a small group for too long, at the cost of our country, its people, our democracy and our environment.
“For a better Britain this has to change; we need to embrace a new kind of devolution of wealth and power, from the very richest in order to reinvest back into our greatest asset in every region—our people.”
It’s been signed by others including British screenwriter and director Richard Curtis.
You can read the full letter here.
Chancellor backs UK businesses
08:30 , Niva Yadav
Newly appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healy has vowed to back UK businesses that are feeling “squeezed.”
Addressing business leaders in central London on Thursday, Mr Healey said: “My message to British businesses is quite simple: to British businesses, to British innovators, to British investors: I will back you as your Chancellor, and I’ll back you in financial services, in technology, in retail, in industry, in all parts of the economy.”
Like households, firms have been feeling a “lack of a breathing space,” he said.
“I’m just as concerned about the cost of business as I am about the cost of living.”
‘They can pay more’: Chief Secretary to Treasury responds to wealth tax calls
08:15 , Niva Yadav
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Emma Reynolds has ‘welcomed’ offers from Gary Lineker and other celebrities to pay more tax.
The some 120 UK millionaires released an open letter calling on Mr Burnham to impose higher taxes on their wealth.
Responding to the letter on Times Radio, Ms Reynolds said: ‘I welcome the fact that people of good means are saying that they want to pay more. They can pay more.”
But, she added that she would not be drawn into the debate, explaining it was only day four of this new government and any major tax changes would be announced at a budget.
Does the cut include restaurants and hotels?
08:00 , Niva Yadav
Andy Burnham’s 20% cut on business rates applies to pubs, clubs and live music venues.
It is not expected to apply to restaurants, hotels or other shops and cafés.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Allen Simpson, chief executive of UK Hospitality, said that there needs to be bigger solutions to provide relief for everyone in the industry.
Al Carns declines role in Burnham's government
07:45 , Niva Yadav
The ex-armed forces minister Al Carns said on social media that he turned down a position in Mr Burnham’s government as he still had concerns about defence funding.
Mr Carns quit his position last month over a dispute with No10 about the DIP (defence investment plan).
However, even under new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Mr Carns said the issue of defencing funding had “not yet been settled” and that he had declined the offer of a role.
How will the cut be funded?
07:30 , Niva Yadav
Andy Burnham’s cut to business rates for pubs, clubs, and live music venues will be funded by a review of business that do not make “a positive contribution to local communities.”
This includes vape shops and will also see a crackdown on online marketplaces that do not comply with tax obligations.
Earlier this week, Mr Burnham announced plans to cut VAT from household electricity bills from October. This will be funded by scrapping the digital ID scheme.
The £2 cap on bus journeys will be drawn from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero funds as No10 looks to switch grants for international climate projects into loans.
What's on the agenda for today?
07:15 , Niva Yadav
In his third day as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham will travel to Glasgow to meet the leaders of Scotland and Wales for the first time since taking over from Sir Keir.
He’ll meet with Scottish First Minister John Swinney and Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth, before heading to the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony later in the evening.
The new Prime Minister has pledged growth in every postcode. Attention will be drawn Mr Burnham’s plans to work with the Scottish and Welsh Devolved Governments.
Three 'giveaways' in three days
06:53 , Niva Yadav
It’s the third morning that we’ve woken up to an announcement at 6am from new Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
As a recap, Mr Burnham cut VAT from household electricity bills on his first day in No10.
Wednesday saw Downing Street announce a £2 cap on bus journeys across England - excluding London.
Now, on Thursday, Mr Burnham has slashed business rates for pubs, clubs and live venues by 20% from April.
Gary Lineker among 120 UK millionaires urging Andy Burnham to tax wealth
06:48 , Niva Yadav
Gary Lineker is among 120 UK-based millionaires calling on Andy Burnham to impose higher taxes on their wealth in an open letter.
The “Proud to Pay” letter to the Prime Minister, organised by the Patriotic Millionaires UK campaign group and published on Thursday, claims the money raised from higher taxes on wealth could be used to reduce inequality, support public infrastructure, and back small businesses.
It reads: “We want you to tax us. We can afford it.
“We’re not talking about higher taxes on those who get up and go to work for their income every day, but on the very richest whose income is derived from the wealth they hold.”
Lineker commented: “Paying your fair share is a basic British value, but so many ordinary people are already paying more than they can afford.
“Our richest people can do more and most want to.
“Our fantastic country deserves all of us to get behind it.”
Other signatories on the list include musician Brian Eno and chairman of Greggs, Ian Gregg.
'We are determine to bring back hope', says Chancellor John Healey
06:45 , Niva Yadav
Newly appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey has said the cut to business rates will “bring back hope” to businesses across the hospitality industry.
He said: “Pubs, clubs and live music venues are at the heart of communities across the UK.”
“We are determined to bring hope back, give businesses the support they need and generate growth in every postcode.”
Burnham to slash business rates for pubs, clubs, and live music venues by 20%
06:41 , Niva Yadav
Business rates will be slashed by 20% for pubs, clubs, and live music venues across England from April next year, Downing Street has announced.
The discount is expected to save a typical pub as much as £1,100 annually and will apply to nearly 32,000 hospitality businesses.
Mr Burnham said: “This government will back the businesses that people want to see in their communities.
“I said I would protect pubs and local high streets – the beating heart of our communities – and that’s what we will do. What we’re announcing today is just the start as we work to bring back hope across the country.”
This comes on top of the 15% relief announced by Sir Keir’s government in January.
The Government will also look to set out reforms across the wider business rates system, including small business rates relief.
Good morning
06:38 , Niva Yadav
Good morning.
We’re resuming our coverage of Andy Burnham’s first days in No10.
Join us as we bring you the latest updates.
Local Government Association says bus fare cap will 'help ease the cost of living' for UK households
Wednesday 22 July 2026 17:20 , Megan Howe
Responding to the Government’s announcement that bus fares are to be capped at £2 for single journeys, Cllr Liam Robinson, Chair of the LGA’s Inclusive Growth Committee, said: “This is a positive measure that will help ease the cost of living and mean people can travel more affordably in their area.
“Alongside the new devolved powers over buses, Government must continue to work with councils and transport authorities to develop a longer-term funding model to put local bus networks on a sustainable financial footing.”
What bus schemes are running in London this summer?
Wednesday 22 July 2026 16:32 , Megan Howe
Londoners can take advantage of a range of money-saving schemes across the bus network this summer, as the capital looks to make public transport more accessible.
Here’s a list of some of the schemes you could benefit from:
Weekend Hopper fare - From this weekend until August, passengers can make unlimited bus and tram journeys across London on Saturdays and Sundays for the price of a single fare.
The scheme runs from 25 July to 31 August, making it easier to hop between parks, markets, museums and summer events without worrying about extra travel costs.
Free bus travel for children - Families can save a little extra this summer as children aged 5 to 15 can travel for free on participating local bus services across England from August 1 to August 31.
London already offers free and discounted travel for many young passengers, but the summer scheme provides an extra boost for family days out.
Andrew Harper's widow says it is 'deplorable' that his killers are being considered for early release
Wednesday 22 July 2026 15:28 , Megan Howe
The widow of police officer Andrew Harper has said it is “deplorable” that two of his killers are being considered for early release.
Lissie Harper said that politicians are “making decisions from behind a desk that will have real and lasting consequences” for the families of victims.
It comes as Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he will review the early release scheme policy.
Pc Harper was 28 years old when he sustained fatal injuries while responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, in August 2019.
The driver of the vehicle which caused Pc Harper’s death, Henry Long, received a 16-year sentence, and will not be eligible for the scheme.
But the Constable’s mother said she had been told that early release could be on the cards for Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who were passengers in the car and handed 13 years in custody for manslaughter after a trial at the Old Bailey in 2020.
Lissie Harper said in a statement: “It has taken me years to rebuild a life that was torn apart in a matter of moments. Years to pick up the pieces left behind by three men whose actions robbed Andrew of his life and stole our future.
“Now – once again – politicians are making decisions from behind a desk that will have real and lasting consequences for victims’ families like mine.
“It is deplorable to me that we have reached a point where releasing prisoners early is even considered acceptable. We speak of justice, accountability and standing with victims, yet decisions like this do the opposite.
“They tell victims their suffering matters less, and offenders that the punishment handed down by our courts is no longer what they will actually serve.”
Charity welcomes new bus far cap but warns initiative 'throws global south countries under the bus'
Wednesday 22 July 2026 14:38 , Megan Howe
A charity has welcomed the new bus fare cap as a measure to help Londoners with the rising cost of travel. But concerns have been raised over how the policy will be funded.
As mentioned previously, part of the funding for the scheme will come from redirecting £400 million that had previously been allocated to help developing countries tackle the impacts of climate change.
This decision has raised concerns among international aid organisations.
ActionAid UK's Joanne O'Neill says the PM's scheme is a "welcome initiative but his funding proposal throws global south countries under the bus, penalising those most impacted by a climate crisis they did not create".
O'Neill goes on to call on the government to "commit to delivering international climate finance through grants, not loans, with funds raised through progressive taxes on polluting companies, and the banks which finance them".
What has Andy Burnham said about increasing the £12,570 personal allowance?
Wednesday 22 July 2026 14:16 , Tom Place
On the eve of becoming Prime Minister, Andy Burnham raised the possibility of an increase in the £12,570 personal allowance on income tax.
Shortly after taking over in No10, he doubled down on the idea, saying it would be considered in the Budget, expected in the autumn.
He was then accused of his first U-turn in Government after it was briefed that any changes on income tax would not be part of the initial moves to ease the cost of living, such as the £2 cap on bus fares outside of London.
The new Prime Minister later insisted that the personal allowance level would be looked at for the Budget.
So what exactly has Mr Burnham said on income tax? You can read the full story here:
What exactly has Andy Burnham said about raising the personal income tax allowance?
Swinney: Burnham exacerbating mistrust in politics with Sarwar appointment
Wednesday 22 July 2026 13:52 , Tom Place
The expected appointment of Anas Sarwar as a UK minister will “exacerbate” mistrust in politics, Scotland’s First Minister has said.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has admitted politicians have “not been good enough” in recent years as he seeks to improve public trust in the country’s leaders.
But responding to the expected appointment of the Scottish Labour leader to the House of Lords and a minister in the expanded Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, First Minister John Swinney said the move goes against the Prime Minister’s goal.
Speaking to the Press Association on Wednesday, the First Minister hit out at the “hypocrisy” of the situation, with Mr Sarwar having previously ruled out a move to the Lords.
“I think what it demonstrates is an appalling level of judgement by Anas Sarwar,” he said.
“He said before the (Holyrood) election he had absolutely no interest in going to the House of Lords, he only wanted to be first minister of Scotland.
“Then, after the election, Anas Sarwar has accepted a place in the House of Lords – a body, by the way, he wants to abolish.
“That is an incredible level of hypocrisy and it just illustrates what I think the Prime Minister is trying to address, which is the fact that politicians say one thing one minute and then do another thing the next minute, when it suits them.
“That, I thought, was what Andy Burnham was trying to address and to solve.
“But instead, Andy Burnham has exacerbated that sentiment within our society.”
Greens call for more services after bus care cap pledge
Wednesday 22 July 2026 13:33 , Tom Place
The Green Party said lower fares are no use “if buses aren’t there” as they called for more services.
A Green Party spokesman said: “On buses we’ve now gone full circle – we are heading back to the £2 cap introduced by the Conservatives and raised to £3 under Keir Starmer.
“Temporary cuts to bus fares are welcome but we need a new direction of travel.
“We need to permanently offer free travel to all those under 22, and we need to see extensive investment in routes and an increase in services so that taking the bus is a realistic option for many more communities across England.
“Lower fares are no use if buses aren’t there in the first place.”
Burnham: Chancellor is 'right behind' cost of living moves
Wednesday 22 July 2026 12:47 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham said that Chancellor John Healey is “right behind” his drive to ease the cost of living.
The Prime Minister told reporters in Bath: “I asked the entire Cabinet at our first meeting yesterday to prioritise cost of living measures above all else.
“People are struggling, life is too hard. This Government will make life more affordable.
“Now, I know a £2 cap on bus fares doesn’t solve everything but it shows the direction in which we are going and the Chancellor is right behind that with me.”
Mr Burnham added that the Defence Investment Plan will have a “big impact on jobs”, while reiterating that he wants to ensure that British industry is supported and prioritised.
He also said that he and the Chancellor will honour the UK’s commitments to Nato, which could include the agreement to allocate 3.5% of GDP to defence spending.
In pictures: Burnham visits Bath bus station
Wednesday 22 July 2026 12:27 , Tom Place
New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has visited a bus station in Bath on Wednesday, following the announcement of a £2 cap on single bus fares.
He was shown the driver's area on a FirstGroup bus and spoke to reporters.
Burnham: No commitment to change income tax personal allowance
Wednesday 22 July 2026 12:12 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham said there is “no commitment at this point” to change the income tax personal allowance.
Asked whether he was planning to change the allowance during a visit to Bath, the Prime Minister reiterated to broadcasters that: “there is no commitment at this point to change, but we will look at that at the budget.”
Asked if tax rises were likely at the budget this year to pay for his cost of living policy blitz, Mr Burnham replied: “No, we’ll take decisions on tax at the budget. This is about reprioritising in this phase. As I say, going to the public’s priorities, the cost-of-living crisis, the housing crisis.
“How much longer are we going to talk about these things without actually doing something to help people? And already in the space of a few days, I’ve made a number of moves that will deal with some of these challenges, although I appreciate there’s a lot more to do.”
Burnham speaks on bus fare cap
Wednesday 22 July 2026 11:45 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham has insisted the £2 cap on bus fares was his policy originally.
Speaking to reporters in Bath, the Prime Minister was asked about “bringing back Boris Johnson’s policy of £2 on the cap on bus fares”.
He responded: “It was actually my policy originally as mayor of Greater Manchester, but I worked with Boris to take it national, and it was hugely popular because it’s simple but it saves people money every day.
“So I think it will really help people with the cost-of-living pressures they’re facing.
It’s there for the whole of 2027, and I think it will put money in people’s pockets.”
Burnham: No early release for main perpetrator in PC's killing
Wednesday 22 July 2026 11:18 , Tom Place
The main perpetrator in the killing of police constable Andrew Harper “will not be subject to any early release”, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday.
PC Harper was 28 years old when he sustained fatal injuries while responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, in August 2019.
Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who were passengers in the car which dragged PC Harper down a country road, were both 17 years old at the time, and were handed 13 years in custody for manslaughter after a trial at the Old Bailey in 2020.
Speaking in Bath on Wednesday, Mr Burnham referred to concerns from PC Harper’s family about early release of two of his killers, saying: “On the broader issue, I feel for the family, it’s an appalling crime that was committed.
“The main perpetrator will not be subject to any early release. Of course, others involved have potentially been identified.
“But I’ve spoken to the new Justice Secretary. He will review the policy together and make further statements in due course.”
You can read the full story here:
No early release for main perpetrator in police officer's killing, says Burnham
Burnham: I've 'reprioritised' to ease cost of living
Wednesday 22 July 2026 11:02 , Tom Place
We will continue to bring you lines from Andy Burnham’s visit to Bath this morning.
The Prime Minister said he has “reprioritised” how money is being spent in Government, in an attempt to ease the cost of living.
He said that some of his pledges might come with more borrowing or tax rises, saying that he will always be honest with the public.
He added that the three policies that he has already announced – ending rough sleeping, the bus fare cap, and the removal of VAT off electricity bills – are all fully funded.
Mr Burnham said: “The public’s priority is reducing cost of living pressures and that’s what I’m doing.
“I’m taking a difficult look at some of the things that the Government was committed to, digital ID being one example, and reprioritising.
“When you talk about council housing, it’s about putting greater priority on council housing.
“The Government had already allocated £39 billion to housing over 10 years.
“My instruction on coming into this job is to spend a greater proportion of that funding on new council housing because that gives the biggest return on investment than anything else.”
Burnham: No bad blood with Starmer allies
Wednesday 22 July 2026 10:51 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham has rejected a suggestion that he created bad blood after clearing out supposed allies of Sir Keir Starmer in his new Cabinet.
Speaking during a visit to Bath, the Prime Minister said: “No, I spoke personally to everybody involved. I explained my decisions to them.
“Obviously, many people who were serving in Keir’s cabinet are still in their positions today.
“Heidi Alexander, who’s done a brilliant job on public transport, Pat McFadden, Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary.
“So obviously, there’s a need to bring in change to give the Government that new direction that I’ve called for. That’s just the reality of politics.
“It’s not about factionalism and, in fact, the way I’ve dealt with it shows that it is about building a team that reflects all sides of the Labour Party at the highest level, so everybody can see themselves represented within it, and that’s what I’ve constructed.”
Farage demands general election
Wednesday 22 July 2026 10:28 , Tom Place
As Andy Burnham’s premiership gets underway, Nigel Farage launched yet another blistering attack on the new Prime Minister on Tuesday.
Mr Farage repeatedly said at a rally in Wymondham that Andy Burnham had “no mandate.”
“This man has no mandate whatsoever,” he said.
“We want and we demand a general election. It’s right and proper that we have a general election now.”
The party has now launched a website, named andyhasnomandate.com, to petition for a general election.
The Reform UK party leader stepped down from his seat in Clacton earlier this month while an investigation over undeclared gifts is carried out, but is expected to stand in the consequent by-election in August.
Welsh First Minister says Burnham is 'open to listening'
Wednesday 22 July 2026 10:00 , Tom Place
Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth has said Prime Minister Andy Burnham is “open to listening, perhaps in a way that Keir Starmer wasn’t”, especially regarding the devolution of powers.
It comes after Mr Burnham told him and the leaders of Scotland and Northern Ireland he was “focused on practical measures, not constitutional changes like further referendums”.
Mr ap Iorwerth told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Wednesday morning: “I had a conversation with Andy Burnham yesterday, congratulated him on becoming Prime Minister, and we both made it clear to each other that we wanted to have a positive relationship, a constructive relationship.
“I know that he understands devolution for Manchester. I want to help him understand what devolution means in Wales and what tools we need to make it work better.
“It’s clear that we have now a Prime Minister that is opening, open to listening, perhaps in a way that Keir Starmer wasn’t, and I’m eager to do everything that I can to make the case for Wales. I promised to stand up for Wales, and that’s exactly what I’m doing.”
No plans to increase tax-free personal allowance
Wednesday 22 July 2026 09:35 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham has pulled back from suggestions about increasing the tax-free personal allowance this morning.
He had told reporters on Monday that the matter would be looked at in the next budget, but said any change would be expensive and "difficult given the financial circumstances in which we find ourselves".
However, it is now understood that any increase to the personal allowance are not part of Mr Burnham’s initial plan to tackle the cost of living.
The £12,570 threshold has been frozen since 2022, and is not due to increase until 2031.
Bus trade body chief wants 'fair' reimbursement model for operators
Wednesday 22 July 2026 09:24 , Tom Place
A bus and coach trade body has called on the government to provide a "fair" reimbursement model for operators taking part in the £2 fare cap scheme.
Chief executive of CPT Graham Vidler said the government must work with the industry to place it on a "sustainable footing" following the announcement.
He said the trade body is "pleased" to see Andy Burnham place buses "at the heart of his government's cost of living plans".
Streeting apologises for early prisoner release joke
Wednesday 22 July 2026 09:06 , Tom Place
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has apologised for comments about the early release of prisoners which were picked up by a microphone.
Mr Streeting, who returned to Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s new-look Cabinet on Monday, made the remarks in a conversation with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and the new Justice Secretary Alex Norris on Tuesday.
In the overheard comments, Mr Streeting suggested to Ms Mahmood that Mr Norris was “the enemy now” and “wants to let them all out”.
Mr Streeting said on X that the remark was referencing a joke shared between former Conservative prime minister Theresa May and ex-chancellor and home secretary Kenneth Clarke.
He wrote: “I hope everyone can see there was no ill intent behind this ribbing of the new Justice Secretary – it was a reference to an old May/Clarke joke.
“But I appreciate these are very serious issues and am sorry for any offence inadvertently caused by this moment of levity.”
Burnham warned not to hit Londoners with £800 rise in tax on homes
Wednesday 22 July 2026 08:53 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham is being urged by London experts not to press ahead with a new property tax which he has previously backed.
The Centre for London is warning that if he did this would mean people who own a £600,000 home in the capital seeing their property tax bill going up by £812.
The think tank supports landmark reform of the property taxation system.
But it believes that new Prime Minister Mr Burnham has supported the wrong scheme and that it would be damaging to the capital which could be hit with an additional £7.5 billion bill.
The former Mayor of Greater Manchester has in the past backed the Fairer Share Campaign to replace council tax and stamp duty with a new tax charged at 0.48% of the value of a property.
It would rise to 0.96% for second homes, empty properties and those owned by foreign nationals.
You can read the full story here:
Andy Burnham warned not to hit Londoners with £800 homes tax rise
Who is Louise Haigh? Burnham's second in command
Wednesday 22 July 2026 08:39 , Tom Place
Louise Haigh has been handed the job of First Secretary of State - the highest-ranking Cabinet post after the Prime Minister.
This means she will be responsible for standing in for Burnham when he is away for events, such as Prime Minister’s Questions.
She was also named Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office.
But who is Louise Haigh? Here’s everything we know about the Sheffield Heeley MP.
Who is Louise Haigh? Comeback queen is Burnham's Cabinet enforcer
Transport Secretary discussed bus fare cap
Wednesday 22 July 2026 08:26 , Tom Place
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was “100% sure” the £2 bus fare cap was fully funded.
Some £400 million of the money comes from switching international climate grants to repayable loans.
She told BBC Breakfast: “There is £454 million pounds of reprioritising money, it’s switch spending.
“We’re not going to be giving those grants to international climate projects in other countries.
“We’re going to be making those loans instead, so that money comes back.”
She also insisted the cut to VAT on domestic electricity bills was properly financed despite former cabinet minister Darren Jones suggested the money was being switched from an unfunded digital ID scheme.
She said it was “not true to say the money isn’t there to implement the changes on electricity bills”.
“The Office for Budget Responsibility said that implementing the digital ID programme was going to cost £1.8 billion, about £800 million of that money is actually going to be used to fund that change to cutting VAT off energy bills,” she said.
Shadow Chancellor: Healey has 'huge job' ahead of him
Wednesday 22 July 2026 08:12 , Tom Place
Conservative shadow chancellor Sir Mel Stride has said that newly-appointed Chancellor John Healey “has got a huge job ahead of him”, adding he fears he may be “captive to a prime minister who seems to want to go back to the 1970s”.
Sir Mel told BBC Breakfast on Wednesday morning: “I think that John Healey has got a huge job ahead of him.
“Of course, I wish him well in that because we want that for the good of the country.
“But I fear that he is somewhat captive to a prime minister who seems to want to go back to the 1970s and huge spending and state intervention, higher taxes, higher borrowing, and all of that, which is what we’ve seen from Labour to date, but even more of it.
“Also constrained by his backbenchers, who do not have any appetite, particularly for welfare reform, which I think is key to the success of our economy.
“And I think under those circumstances, particularly with an economy that itself is very constrained now because of its mismanagement by Rachel Reeves over the last couple of years, I think he’s really got his work cut out.”
Then and Now
Wednesday 22 July 2026 07:59 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham shared a heartwarming video on his TikTok channel yesterday evening, showing a number of his new Cabinet as youngsters.
@andy.burnham Then vs now
♬ original sound - Andy Burnham
ICYMI - Starmer ally Jones launches attack on new PM
Wednesday 22 July 2026 07:49 , Tom Place
Revenge is a dish best served cold, so the saying goes.
But Sir Keir Starmer’s top ally Darren Jones launched a withering attack on Andy Burnham in the full heat of a change of Government.
His intervention immediately raised potentially damaging questions for Mr Burnham before he had even chaired his first Cabinet meeting after becoming Prime Minister on Monday.
You can read the full piece here, as The Standard’s chief reporter Nicholas Cecil reports:
For Andy Burnham 'revenge' was a dish served piping hot to the new PM
'Burnham bounce' sees Labour level with Reform in polls
Wednesday 22 July 2026 07:38 , Tom Place
New polling has revealed that Reform UK’s lead has evaporated since Andy Burnham took over from Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister
A “Burnham bounce” has seen support for Labour jump eight points compared to mid-June, bringing Labour level with Nigel Farage’s party on 28%.
The poll was taken from July 17-20, after Mr Burnham replaced Sir Keir as Labour leader.
Polling data aggregator Election Maps UK said that 28% is the highest voting intention for Labour amongst any pollster since March 2025.
The results show a dramatic fall for Reform, who have spent around 18 months leading the majority of opinion polls.
Latest Voting Intention: Burnham begins and Labour close gap on Reform
— Deltapoll (@DeltapollUK) July 21, 2026
Con 18% (+1)
Lab 28% (+8)
Lib Dem 10% (-2)
Reform 28% (-)
SNP 3% (-)
Plaid 1% (-)
Green 10% (-3)
Other 2% (-2)
Fieldwork: 17-20 July 2026
(Comparison: 12-15 June)
Sample: 2,027 GB adults pic.twitter.com/WREXOJPKkp
Who is in Andy Burnham's cabinet?
Wednesday 22 July 2026 07:27 , Tom Place
Mr Burnham’s ministerial appointments come after he unveiled his new Cabinet on Monday after taking over as Prime Minister.
The ex-Manchester mayor promised to deliver the biggest change to British politics in 40 years as he entered 10 Downing Street and swept away key figures from Sir Keir Starmer’s government.
He promised to provide early “breathing space” for households struggling with the cost of living, vowed to end rough sleeping and set out a goal of “reindustrialising Britain”.
Rachel Reeves was axed as Chancellor, Sir Keir’s Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy was sacked and Peter Kyle lost his job as Business Secretary as Mr Burnham cleared the way for his own allies to take key roles.
You can see who’s in Andy Burnham’s Cabinet - and who was fired - here.
Andy Burnham’s Cabinet: Full list of who's in and who's out
Andy Burnham's Government: Who are all the ministers appointed by the new Prime Minister?
Wednesday 22 July 2026 07:16 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham has appointed dozens of junior government ministers after revealing his Cabinet.
The new Prime Minister has promised to deliver “the biggest change to British politics for 40 years”.
He has already axed a string of ministers from his predecessor Sir Keir Starmer’s top team.
His new Cabinet ministers will be key to delivering his bold ambitions for Britain.
They in turn will have to rely on ministers of state and more junior ministers to make an avalanche of decisions and to drive Mr Burnham’s reform agenda on a daily basis.
You can see the full list of ministers here:
Andy Burnham's Government: Who are all the ministers appointed by the new PM?
Inflation falls to 2.6%
Wednesday 22 July 2026 07:05 , Tom Place
The UK rate of inflation has slowed to 2.6% in the 12 months to June, official figures show, in a temporary boost for new Prime Minister Andy Burnham ahead of a jump in the household energy price cap.
The figures compares to 2.8% for the year to May. The Bank of England's target for inflation is 2%.
The pace of inflation fell due to motor fuel prices, in particular diesel, according to the Office for National Statistics.
ICYMI: Sarwar set to quit as Scottish Labour leader to become minister in Burnham's government
Wednesday 22 July 2026 06:54 , Tom Place
Anas Sarwar is set to quit as Scottish Labour leader to be a minister in Andy Burnham’s Government.
Mr Sarwar will be elevated to the Lords to take up a ministerial post at the revamped Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, headed by Jonathan Reynolds, according to reports.
The Scottish Labour leader called for Sir Keir Starmer to step down as prime minister in February, and hailed successor Mr Burnham for his “bold Labour vision” as he entered No 10 this week.
Former Greater Manchester mayor Mr Burnham appointed his Cabinet on Monday after taking office, but many ministerial appointments are still to come.
Mr Sarwar has been Scottish Labour leader since 2021.
Burnham announces bus fare cap
Wednesday 22 July 2026 06:44 , Tom Place
Single bus fares across England will be capped at £2 from January, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced.
The nationwide cap is currently set at £3 until the end of March 2027 although some areas - including London and Greater Manchester, where Mr Burnham set a £2 limit as mayor - have lower top rates for single tickets.
Mr Burnham said: “Good, affordable transport links are an essential. No one should be priced out of those and left behind.
“But for too long people have said that cheaper transport isn’t an option. I don’t accept that. I’ve done it before and I will do it again now: a £2 cap on bus fares for millions across the country.
“Lower fares will help people get to where they need to – giving them breathing space to help with the cost of living.”
The measure is backed by £454 million of funding, including money to allow devolved governments to take similar action.
Some £400 million of that funding will come from switching investment in international climate finance to loans, with the rest from savings in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero budget.
The total cost of the scheme is expected to be more than £500 million, with the rest coming from Department for Transport funding already allocated to buses.
The £2 cap will be in place throughout 2027, and reverses an increase put in place by Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves in 2024.
Good morning
Wednesday 22 July 2026 06:37 , Tom Place
We are now resuming our live coverage of Andy Burnham’s first days as Prime Minister.
We will be bringing you all the latest news from throughout the day.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar to be made a minister
Tuesday 21 July 2026 22:26 , Megan Howe
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar is to be made a peer and appointed as a minister in Andy Burnham’s Government, sources say.
Anas Sarwar 'set to quit as Scottish Labour leader to be a minister in Burnham's goernment'
Tuesday 21 July 2026 20:12 , Megan Howe
Anas Sarwar is set to quit as Scottish Labour leader to be a minister in Andy Burnham’s Government, according to reports.
Mr Sarwar will be elevated to the Lords to take up a ministerial post at the revamped Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, headed by Jonathan Reynolds, according to media including the Scottish Sun.
The Scottish Labour leader called for Sir Keir Starmer to step down as prime minister in February.
He hailed successor Mr Burnham for his “bold Labour vision” as he entered No 10 this week.
Former Greater Manchester mayor Mr Burnham appointed his Cabinet on Monday after taking office, but a raft of ministerial appointments are still to come.
Mr Sarwar has been Scottish Labour leader since 2021.
Civil servants already working at Manchester base says Downing Street
Tuesday 21 July 2026 19:18 , Megan Howe
Civil servants are already working at Andy Burnham’s new Manchester-based No 10 North, which will cost taxpayers no extra money, Downing Street has said.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman told reporters: “Staff are already working in the new No 10 North. This includes staff from Manchester and those who have come in from around the country.
“It is based at existing UK Government offices in Central Manchester and you can expect more updates in due course.”
The official also said: “The running of No 10 North will be covered by existing Cabinet Office budgets. There is no additional cost to taxpayers.”
On the question of relocation packages for London-based personnel to move there, he said it is “standard practice” for employers to support staff required to relocate.
The spokesman said numbers would be detailed in due course, adding: “We already have around 80,000 civil servants based in the North West of England, with around 700 roles moved from London to Manchester” last year.
Mr Burnham “expects to work from No 10 North at least one day a week,” his spokesman said, while caveating that his diary could change depending on the business of Government.
British Gas says it is 'encouraging' to see the new PM move quickly on energy bills
Tuesday 21 July 2026 18:05 , Megan Howe
The boss of British Gas owner Centrica said it is “encouraging to see the new Prime Minister move quickly” to cut household energy bills after announcing an £850 million cut to VAT on electricity bills.
Chris O’Shea, group chief executive of Centrica, said: “Any reduction in bills will be welcome news for customers and it’s good to see affordability being made a priority from day one.
“We will, of course, be passing this reduction on to our customers.
“We’ve been clear for a long time that help should be targeted at those who most need it.
“We continue to believe that the most sustainable solution would be a targeted social tariff to support vulnerable households, and we look forward to helping the Government deliver that at the earliest possible opportunity.”
Burnham's conversation with Trump was 'very warm', No10 says
Tuesday 21 July 2026 17:35 , Megan Howe
Andy Burnham’s conversation with Donald Trump was “extremely warm” and lasted around 20 minutes, Downing Street has said.
The Prime Minister’s spokesman told reporters: “It was an extremely warm call and I think that’s reflected in both sides’ read-outs.”
Burnham's plan to cut VAT is 'fully funded' says No10
Tuesday 21 July 2026 16:36 , Megan Howe
Downing Street has insisted Andy Burnham’s plan to cut VAT from electricity bills is fully funded.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “It’s fully funded and will come into effect from October the first, and it applies and is funded for this financial year.”
The Government previously said the £1.8 billion cost of the digital ID scheme over three years had been “scored” by the Office for Budget Responsibility, meaning the money would have had to be found.
The spokesman was asked about the scoring of the digital ID programme and which funding is to be shifted from it for the VAT cut, as the Office for Budget Responsibility previously said that money for digital ID still needed to be found.
Put to him that the cut was being funded through unidentified savings, he said: “What we’re doing is we’re funding this through the cancellation of the digital ID programme.
“Departments were going to have to fund the Digital ID programme through their existing budget reprioritisation.
“Departments will now direct these savings towards this.”
Ed Miliband takes call with Ukraine
Tuesday 21 July 2026 16:23 , Megan Howe
Ed Miliband’s first diplomatic call as Foreign Secretary was with his Ukrainian counterpart, he has said.
“I underlined the UK’s steadfast and resolute commitment to the people of Ukraine,” the new Foreign Secretary wrote on X.
The former Labour leader also said: “Ukraine is on the frontline of the fight for the values of freedom and democracy in Europe.”
Andrii Sybiha, Kyiv’s acting minister of foreign affairs, wrote on social media that he congratulated Mr Miliband on his new role “and thanked the United Kingdom for its steadfast support for Ukraine since the first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion, including military, energy, humanitarian, economic and sanctions assistance”.
Mr Sybiha added: “I briefed my colleague on the latest developments on the battlefield and thanked him for his solidarity following Russia’s latest massive attack on Kyiv. We discussed further strengthening our cooperation, continued military assistance, support for Ukraine’s energy sector ahead of winter, increasing pressure on Russia.
“I invited Foreign Secretary Miliband to visit Ukraine. I wished him and his team every success in their important work and look forward to working closely together to further strengthen the vital Ukraine–UK partnership.”
A Foreign Office spokesperson said their call showed the Government’s “commitment to continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Ukraine, as Britain has done for the last four years”.
Streeting says government making 'bold' commitments to the country
Tuesday 21 July 2026 15:46 , Megan Howe
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting insisted the Government was making “bold” and “credible” commitments to the country, after former minister Darren Jones cast doubt on the funding for Andy Burnham’s plans to cut VAT on energy bills.
Asked for a response to Mr Jones, the Defence Secretary said: “I’ve been immersed in the Ministry of Defence today, so you’ll forgive me if I haven’t seen in detail comments made by Darren Jones.
“What I can say, having come here straight from Cabinet this afternoon, is that what you will see and hear from this Prime Minister and Chancellor, both in the current coming days, months, and years, is a commitment to be both bold and also credible.
“Where we’re making commitments to the country, it’s because they’re affordable, and we will set out how those things will be funded.
“Darren Jones was a good colleague, served this country well, and I certainly look forward to working with him regardless of where he happens to sit in the House of Commons chamber.”
Defence department must show taxpayers' money is 'well spent', Streeting says
Tuesday 21 July 2026 15:30 , Megan Howe
Wes Streeting has said his new department must show it does not ask for taxpayers’ money to fund defence “lightly”.
Speaking at a press conference, the Defence Secretary said: “The commitment that the Prime Minister has given to the defence of our nation is clear and will be even more clear in the coming months.
“I’m absolutely delighted that my friend and predecessor John Healey has taken on the challenge of Chancellor of the Exchequer and his position on defence investment is on the record, as is mine.
“We have responsibility, I think, at the Ministry of Defence to demonstrate that every penny of taxpayer money that’s invested in defence is necessary and well spent, to show that we understand the sacrifices that involves from other Government departments, in terms of opportunity costs of other things we might fund.
“But also to taxpayers, whether individuals or businesses that are feeling hard-pressed, we don’t take the contribution they make lightly and we don’t make this ask of the country lightly either.”
Mr Streeting said defence sector “opportunities for this country are enormous”.
Who is Louise Haigh? Burnham's second in command
Tuesday 21 July 2026 15:19 , Megan Howe
Louise Haigh has been handed the job of First Secretary of State - the highest-ranking Cabinet post after the Prime Minister.
This means she will be responsible for standing in for Burnham when he is away for events, such as Prime Minister’s Questions.
She was also named Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office.
But who is Louise Haigh? Here’s everything we know about the Sheffield Heeley MP.
Who is Louise Haigh? Comeback queen is Burnham's Cabinet enforcer
John Healey 'burning with a passion' for the Treasury
Tuesday 21 July 2026 15:15 , Megan Howe
John Healey has said he is “burning with a passion” for the Treasury as he addressed staff for the first time since being appointed Chancellor by Andy Burnham on Monday.
Mr Healey returns to the department nearly two decades since he last served as a minister in the department.
“I’m still burning with a passion about this institution as a force for stability, for security, for growth, a force for a successful Britain, and a successful Britain now in a much tougher world”, he said.
He listed his five priorities, as fiscal discipline, growth in every postcode, backing Britain in procurement, wealth creation and the cost of living.
“This is the way that we start to build a new economy. This is the way that we start to build new hope,” Mr Healey said.
“This is the way that we start to advance working people in this country.”
Streeting says Russian warship firing its weapons off the British coast was 'performative and 'irresponsible'
Tuesday 21 July 2026 15:01 , Megan Howe
A Russian warship firing its weapons off the British coast on Monday was “performative and irresponsible”, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has said.
A heavily armed Russian warship named the Neustrashimy carried out a live-fire artillery exercise approximately 40 nautical miles (46 miles) south of Plymouth on Monday.
Asked whether the Russian activity was a “message from Vladimir Putin to the new Prime Minister” Andy Burnham, Mr Streeting said at a press conference: “We should see yesterday’s events as performative and irresponsible.
“It’s not the first time that Russia has behaved like this and frankly it’s the tip of the iceberg of the daily threats that this country faces and our allies face.
“And Russia should be in no doubt about the resolve of this Government and this Prime Minister, our resolve to stand against Russian aggression in Ukraine but also Russian aggression against all of our allies.”
Wes Streeting was named as the new Defence Secretary on Monday.
Healey is eighth Chancellor of the decade
Tuesday 21 July 2026 14:14 , Tom Place
Along with the sixth new prime minister in a decade, the UK now has its eighth chancellor, ninth foreign secretary and 10th education secretary.
The turnover in Cabinet ministers since 2016 has been driven by the increasing scale and frequency of reshuffles carried out by successive PMs, with sweeping changes happening on an almost annual basis.
John Healey is the eighth new Chancellor of the Exchequer since 2016, in a sequence that began with Philip Hammond (2016-19), then Sajid Javid (2019-20), Rishi Sunak (2020-22), Nadhim Zahawi (63 days in 2022), Kwasi Kwarteng (31 days in 2022), Jeremy Hunt (2022-24) and most recently Rachel Reeves (2024-26).
By contrast, in the 10 years before 2016, only three people held the role of chancellor: Gordon Brown (up to 2007), Alistair Darling (2007-10) and George Osborne (2010-16).
In pictures: Andy Burnham's first Cabinet meeting
Tuesday 21 July 2026 13:55 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham has hosted his first Cabinet meeting since becoming Prime Minister this afternoon.
You can see pictures of the meeting here:
Burnham wants improved relations with civil service
Tuesday 21 July 2026 13:45 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham vowed to improve relations between ministers and civil servants in his first Cabinet meeting this afternoon.
The Prime Minister said the two points on the agenda for the gathering were the “mission purpose of this Government and standards”.
He said: “The two are linked because we will only deliver for people and make hope feel real for people if we are pulling ourselves together in the same direction and we have a really positive working relationship, a sense of one team.”
He said he had spoken to Cabinet Secretary Dame Antonia Romeo, who was sitting beside him, about wanting to “set the tone at the top in relation to our relationship with our colleagues in the Civil Service,” and “making that feel like it’s a one-team approach… respecting each other”.
John Healy: "We have some big challenges"
Tuesday 21 July 2026 13:21 , Niva Yadav
Newly appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey, who is sat opposite from Andy Burnham, admitted the Cabinet have some “big challenges.”
But he explained that as a “powerful team”, the Cabinet would prove to the British public that they are a “Labour government.”
Mr Burnham quipped back, “boldly Labour, but prudently Labour as well!”
Burnham vows to "show how we're going to pay"
Tuesday 21 July 2026 13:13 , Niva Yadav
In front of the media, Andy Burnham told his Cabinet that they will “seek to do more” with plans to be set out in the coming days.
“But always we will show how we are going to pay for it, what we are reprioritising. That will be a theme that we will always come back to,” he said.
Burnham pledges to lead a "cost-of-living government"
Tuesday 21 July 2026 13:07 , Niva Yadav
In his first Cabinet meeting as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham has called on his top team to “deliver for people.”
He said: “What can we do just to take that little bit of pressure off people’s shoulders, just to give them that little extra sense that help is coming so that they can have that bit of hope that things are getting better.
“And that’s the mission that we’ve got to set ourselves together.”
He asked his colleagues to look into what their department could do to ease cost-of-living pressures, “big and small”.
“We need to be a cost-of-living Government, getting that cost of living down, looking at all possible ways of doing that.”
Farage calls for general election
Tuesday 21 July 2026 12:48 , Niva Yadav
As Andy Burnham’s first Cabinet meeting gets underway, Nigel Farage has launched yet another blistering attack on the new Prime Minister.
Mr Farage repeatedly said at a rally in Wymondham that Andy Burnham had “no mandate.”
“This man has no mandate whatsoever,” he said.
“We want and we demand a general election. It’s right and proper that we have a general election now.”
The party has now launched a website, named andyhasnomandate.com, to petition for a general election.
The Reform UK party leader stepped down from his seat in Clacton earlier this month while an investigation over undeclared gifts is carried out, but is expected to stand in the consequent by-election in August.
For Andy Burnham 'revenge' was a dish served piping hot to the new PM on his first full day in No10
Tuesday 21 July 2026 12:45 , Niva Yadav
Revenge is a dish best served cold, so the saying goes.
But Sir Keir Starmer’s top ally Darren Jones launched a withering attack on Andy Burnham in the full heat of a change of Government.
His intervention immediately raised potentially damaging questions for Mr Burnham before he had even chaired his first Cabinet meeting after becoming Prime Minister on Monday.
You can read the full piece here, as The Standard’s chief reporter Nic Cecil reports
For Andy Burnham 'revenge' was a dish served piping hot to the new PM
Who is in the new Cabinet?
Tuesday 21 July 2026 12:28 , Tom Place
Ahead of the first meeting of Andy Burnham’s new Cabinet, you can see the full list of who's in and who's out here.
Ministers arrive for Burnham's first Cabinet Meeting
Tuesday 21 July 2026 12:19 , Tom Place
The first ministers have arrived for Andy Burnham’s first Cabinet meeting as Prime Minister.
Lucy Powell and Miatta Fahnbulleh arrived, before Wes Streeting and Chris Bryant entered No 10 together.
Angela Rayner then arrived for the meeting, which is scheduled to begin at 12.30pm.
The Chief Whip Anneliese Midgley entered No 10 before Dame Angela Eagle, the new Environmental Secretary.
Jonathan Reynolds, the Business and Trade Secretary arrived with AI Minister Kanishka Narayan and Justice Secretary Alex Norris.
The new Chancellor John Healey was next to arrive, followed by Bridget Phillipson, who was swapped from Education Secretary to Equalities Minister.
Proportion of state educated Cabinet ministers falls
Tuesday 21 July 2026 12:04 , Tom Place
Analysis of the new Cabinet has found that the proportion of state educated Cabinet ministers has fallen.
The Sutton Trust data shows that 72% of the new Cabinet went to state comprehensives, while 24% attended private schools - despite only 7% of the overall population attending private schools.
When the Labour government was elected in 2024, the previous Cabinet was the most representative of the UK ever recorded in terms of education backgrounds.
There were a record number of state-educated ministers and the lowest proportion of privately educated ministers since 1945, at 8%.
More Ministers in the first Burnham Cabinet were educated in the North compared to both the Sunak and Starmer Cabinets, according to the data.
41% of this Cabinet were educated in the North of England, compared to 19% under Rishi Sunak and 31% under Sir Keir Starmer,
Trump reveals details of Burnham phone call
Tuesday 21 July 2026 11:35 , Tom Place
Donald Trump has said Andy Burnham “has got a big job ahead of him, but he will be able to do it” and pledged that the US “will be there to help”.
In a message on his Truth Social platform, the president also wished the new Prime Minister “good luck and godspeed”.
The early endorsement of the former Greater Manchester mayor by the American leader comes after the pair spoke on the phone within an hour of the Makerfield MP arriving in Downing Street.
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In his Truth Social Post, Mr Trump said: “I had a very good conversation with the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Andy Burnham.
“We discussed many subjects, including the outstanding relationship we have had with the UK.
“We will be meeting in the not too distant future for topics of mutual interest.”
He added: “The Prime Minister has got a big job ahead of him, but he will be able to do it and, of course, the USA will be there to help!
“We discussed North Sea Oil, Trade, the Military Alliance, Demining of the Hormuz Strait, and many other topics.
“The call was interesting, and went very well. I wished Prime Minister Burnham, GOOD LUCK AND GODSPEED!”
Badenoch questions funding over energy costs
Tuesday 21 July 2026 11:02 , Tom Place
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said that she welcomes "action to cut the cost of energy", but has questioned how it will be funded.
Ms Badenoch posted on X that energy prices are "too high because of Ed Miliband's policies".
She added: "The question is how will Burnham fund all his new policies without putting up taxes or borrowing even more."
The government says scrapping plans for digital ID will fund the VAT cut on electricity bills - but Ms Badenoch said "you can’t use the funding from an unfunded programme to pay for cheaper bills".
I welcome action to cut the cost of energy which is too high because of Ed Miliband’s policies.
— Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) July 21, 2026
But the question is how will Burnham fund all his new policies without putting up taxes or borrowing even more.
Until yesterday, Darren Jones was in charge of DigitalID and the Chief… https://t.co/PSoT8f058T
Burnham's wife makes fashion statement in £850 Victoria Beckham dress
Tuesday 21 July 2026 10:46 , Tom Place
Andy Burnham swapped his signature black t-shirt for a suit on Monday as he officially became Prime Minister, yet it was his wife, Marie-France van Heel, who really stole the show.
The Dutch-born marketing executive traded her high-street look last week for the epitome of British high fashion as she braced for life inside No10.
Ms van Heel lived up to her reputation as the “coolest girl in college” in a lilac gown designed by another one of Britain’s “first ladies”, Victoria Beckham.
The 56-year-old stunned in the elegant £850 midi dress, which is made from crepe and features cape sleeves with a fitted waist.
You can read the full story here:
Burnham's wife makes No10 fashion statement in £850 Victoria Beckham dress
Burnham and Swinney talk Scottish independence
Tuesday 21 July 2026 10:31 , Tom Place
Prime Minister Andy Burnham told John Swinney they will have to “agree to disagree” on Scottish independence in a call on Tuesday, a UK Government source said.
In a call ion Tuesday morning , the First Minister extended an invitation to visit Scotland “at the earliest opportunity”, and also raised the issue of Scottish independence, stressing the pro-separation majority in Holyrood, in the hopes of advancing the debate.
But a UK Government source told the Press Association the Prime Minister had been resistant.
“When the question of independence was raised, the Prime Minister was quite firm they would have to agree to disagree,” he said.
“It’s not something he’s focused on and it’s not a conversation that he’s interested in taking forward.”
The rest of the call was said to be “quite warm and constructive”, with the Prime Minister stressing the areas where the two Governments can work together and his drive for a “new kind of politics”.
Click here to read the full blog on The The Standard's website
