02/09/2026
Prime Minister Andy Burnham outlined his Government’s direction, focusing on national security, public safety, economic growth, devolution and improvements to essential public services.
Key announcements included:
Ukraine: The UK will maintain its strong support for Ukraine and help it defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
Public safety: The Prime Minister paid tribute to two police officers killed on duty and expressed sympathy for those affected by the Nepal–China border disaster.
Climate change: The Government will strengthen its response to the climate crisis, with the Prime Minister confirming his attendance at COP31.
Channel crossings: Summer arrivals were reportedly half the previous year’s level, while UK–France cooperation had prevented more than 48,000 attempted crossings.
Prison policy: Those convicted of manslaughter, death by dangerous driving, indecent assault and serious sexual offences will be excluded from proposed reductions to prison terms. The Government will also increase the deportation of foreign national offenders and address the injustice of indefinite IPP sentences.
Cost-of-living support: Measures include reducing VAT on electricity bills, cutting business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues, and restoring the £2 bus fare cap throughout 2027.
Economic reform: Burnham argued that centralisation, privatisation, deindustrialisation, austerity and Brexit had contributed to regional decline and weak economic growth.
Devolution: Every area of England without devolved powers will be offered a devolution agreement, with or without an elected mayor. Discussions will also continue with Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Number 10 North: This body will coordinate regional growth, transfer powers and resources away from Whitehall, and support the reindustrialisation of communities.
Local powers: Proposed measures include greater control over technical education, employment support, investment and an overnight visitor levy from late 2027–28.
Public services: The Government plans stronger public control over transport, water, energy infrastructure and housing, alongside expanded community-based mental health support.
Industrial strategy: Local authorities will be supported in developing regional investment plans that bring together businesses, universities and government.
The Prime Minister presented this programme as a move towards practical, cross-party government, promising to place communities before political interests and distribute greater power, opportunity and investment across every part of the UK.