Andy Burnham says rejoining the EU among all ‘the options’ being considered – UK politics live

Andy Burnham, in his capacity as Prime Minister, has stated his intention to initiate a debate regarding the UK's future relationship with Europe, with rejoining the EU being one of the options under consideration. He also clarified that his recent announcement concerning the pensions triple lock is an adjustment, not its removal, ensuring the state pension's value will continue to rise based on prices, earnings, or 2.5%. Burnham emphasized that these measures are aimed at alleviating pressure on the public, citing the removal of VAT from electricity bills as another example of this approach.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated that the UK is considering a range of future relationships with the European Union, including the possibility of rejoining the bloc. Speaking after the Labour conference, Burnham stated that ministers will examine "what is doable" and the "pros and cons" of various options, which could range from maintaining current arrangements to seeking a customs union, rejoining the single market, or full EU membership. This represents a shift from Labour's previous stance, which explicitly ruled out returning to the single market or customs union. Burnham plans to present these options to the public around the time of the UK-EU summit in November, arguing that Brexit has caused "more harm than good" and that a clear long-term relationship with the EU is necessary.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham delivered a significant political speech on Tuesday, outlining his vision for Britain. He pledged to establish "a new social contract for the 21st century," reform the electoral system, and redefine the UK's relationship with European neighbors. Burnham acknowledged that economic limitations present a substantial political risk in implementing these ambitious plans. He emphasized that incremental changes would be insufficient to navigate the current challenging times. The speech was delivered at the Labour Party's annual conference.

At Labour's conference, Andy Burnham unveiled a radical progressive agenda aimed at revitalizing Britain, acknowledging potential political costs. His plan includes significant reforms to social care, electoral reform, and a re-evaluation of the UK's relationship with the EU. Burnham proposed ending the pensions triple lock to fund a free national care service in England and establishing a commission for electoral reform to replace the first-past-the-post system. He admitted these ambitious changes would take time due to public finances, but expressed a commitment to responsible fiscal management. Burnham stated his belief that these policies will break from the past 40 years and allow the country to "rise again."

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, in his first Labour Party conference speech as leader on September 29, 2026, outlined a vision for Britain's future, advocating for a "fundamental rethink" and a "new path" of equitable growth. Burnham announced plans for a significant expansion of public services, including a free, person-centered National Care Service and reforms to the pension triple lock to benefit low-income pensioners. He also committed to making housing more affordable by reducing deposit requirements for young people and proposed returning utilities like water and electricity to public ownership, establishing a publicly-owned "Great British Grid." In foreign policy, Burnham pledged to stand up to Russian and Iranian threats and reaffirmed support for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Andy Burnham, set to address the Labour conference in Liverpool, will present a "more serious prospectus for Britain." He plans to advocate for rolling back privatization with a government-backed grid plan. Meanwhile, a union leader has warned that axing the pension triple lock would be "electoral suicide" and not "the right thing." Burnham's speech will emphasize honesty and offer "big solutions" as an alternative to the current political direction, which he believes has moved Britain backward.

Labour insiders are confident that Andy Burnham can successfully advocate for his proposed social care reforms, which aim to establish a new, multibillion-pound public service. This initiative, which previous prime ministers have failed to deliver, is expected to be funded through tax rises or adjustments to state pension increases, potentially including weakening the triple lock guarantee. Labour strategists believe they have ample time to present their case to the public, learning from past failed attempts like Theresa May's 2017 proposal. The reforms could offer better protection for older people, with some economists suggesting a trade-off involving the triple lock as a way to make the plan revenue-neutral and more palatable to pensioners. Burnham is expected to outline further details of his vision in an upcoming conference speech.

Labour's recent leadership change, replacing Keir Starmer with Andy Burnham, has significantly boosted the party's public perception, according to reports from their conference in Liverpool. This shift is evidenced by improved public opinion metrics, with ministers feeling they have a renewed chance with voters. Despite this "Burnham bounce," the party acknowledges significant fiscal challenges ahead. Speculation about a snap election was addressed by Burnham, who confirmed a 2029 date. Burnham aims to deliver radical change by focusing on short-term improvements and a long-term vision, though the upcoming budget and spending review will be crucial tests of his ability to navigate economic headwinds and reassure markets.

Britain's Labour Party has begun its first annual conference under the leadership of Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Liverpool. Burnham, who replaced Keir Starmer in July, has reportedly revitalized the party. In a BBC interview, Burnham stated his upcoming speech would demonstrate his readiness to make difficult decisions to address current challenges. He contrasted his approach with the previous Conservative government, asserting he would not take economic risks that continue to cause harm. The conference marks a new phase for the centre-left party with Burnham at its helm.