Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has called for an immediate general election following Andy Burnham’s emergence as Britain’s next prime minister, insisting the public should decide who leads the country rather than Parliament alone.
Burnham is due to be formally appointed by King Charles III on Monday after winning the Labour leadership unopposed in the wake of Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation.
Reform UK Says New Government Lacks Public Approval
Farage argued that Burnham has no direct electoral mandate to govern, saying the country deserves the opportunity to vote before a new administration begins implementing major policy changes.
According to the Reform UK leader, the incoming Labour government is poised to introduce higher taxes, expand foreign aid spending, pursue closer ties with Europe, and fail to adequately address border security, despite not having sought fresh approval from voters.
He urged Burnham to seek a nationwide mandate, saying only a general election would allow the public to determine the country’s future.
Farage Takes Swipe at Conservatives
In making his case, Farage also criticized the Conservative Party for remaining silent on the issue.
He suggested the opposition had shown little appetite for challenging Labour by not demanding an election, contrasting Reform UK’s position with that of Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who has not publicly called for an early vote.
Burnham Set to Outline Vision in First Downing Street Address
Shortly after being invited by the King to form a government, Burnham is expected to deliver his first speech outside Downing Street, where he will seek to reassure the public about the direction of his administration.
The new prime minister is expected to acknowledge the political uncertainty Britain has experienced in recent years while promising to rebuild confidence in government and provide households with greater financial stability.
He is also expected to argue that the country needs a period of steady leadership after witnessing seven different prime ministers over the past decade.
Cost of Living Expected to Dominate Early Agenda
Supporters close to Burnham say easing financial pressure on households will be one of his government’s immediate priorities.
Although he has only recently returned to Westminster and secured the Labour leadership without a contest, Burnham is expected to use his first days in office to announce measures aimed at helping families cope with rising living costs.
His administration is also expected to focus on delivering practical improvements rather than simply restoring political stability.
Greater Regional Powers High on the List
One of Burnham’s signature proposals is expected to involve shifting more decision-making powers away from Westminster.
The incoming prime minister has already indicated he wants to strengthen regional governance, including plans to establish a “No. 10 North” base in Manchester as part of a broader effort to decentralize government.
He has also pledged to abandon Labour’s proposed digital identity programme introduced under Sir Keir Starmer, saying resources should instead be directed toward tackling everyday economic challenges.
Energy Policy Could See Significant Changes
Among the first policy announcements expected from Burnham’s government are measures targeting energy costs.
Reports suggest ministers are considering expanding oil and gas production in the North Sea as part of efforts to improve domestic energy security and reduce pressure on household bills.
The proposal, however, has drawn criticism from environmental groups, which argue it would conflict with Labour’s previous election pledge not to approve new North Sea drilling licences.
Thames Water Decision Looms
Another early challenge awaiting the new prime minister involves the future of Thames Water.
The utility company remains under severe financial pressure with debts estimated at around £20 billion, raising the possibility of temporary public ownership if rescue efforts fail.
Burnham has previously expressed support for stronger public oversight of essential services, while the company’s major creditors have indicated they remain open to negotiations aimed at preventing formal government intervention.
Cabinet Appointments Under Close Watch
Attention is now turning to the composition of Burnham’s first Cabinet, with key ministerial appointments expected shortly after he takes office.
Particular interest surrounds the position of Chancellor, where Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood have both been mentioned as possible candidates.
Burnham has said he has yet to make a final decision, while Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell criticized anonymous briefings targeting potential appointees, describing the internal leaks as damaging and unhelpful as the party prepares to begin a new chapter in government.
