Andy Burnham, who has just taken over as Prime Minister from Keir Starmer, has pledged to "honour" Britain's international commitments on defence spending, but has stopped short of announcing any new funding. The pledge comes as the United States presses the UK to move "beyond rhetoric" and take concrete action to increase its defence budget, adding pressure on the new premier at a time when he is still forming his government.

Burnham's comments were made as part of his first remarks since entering Downing Street, alongside vows to "regain stability" and be "better" than his predecessor. He has yet to set out specific figures or a timetable for increased defence spending, and the announcement comes amid a wider reshuffle, with a Cabinet unveiling expected imminently and speculation over key appointments, including the Chancellor role.