Andy Burnham has been sworn in as UK prime minister, becoming the country's seventh leader in a decade, as his Labour government takes charge amid economic strain and political instability. Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday morning, he called for a "new political model" based on collaboration rather than "point scoring," and pledged to shift power away from Westminster and out to "every postcode in the land." His appointment marks a broader leftward shift, with commentators noting a clear break from Thatcher-era policy.

Burnham outlined plans to bring essential services back under greater public control to improve affordability for households, alongside a push for reindustrialisation of the economy. His premiership is also expected to face potential friction with Washington, given his past criticism of Donald Trump, adding a further complication to an agenda already shaped by domestic economic and political pressures.