Andy Burnham has emphasised a theme of hope and renewal ahead of the Labour Party Conference, with the Prime Minister stating "it's time for Britain to believe again." However, SNP Westminster leader Dave Doogan has criticised this messaging as hollow and insufficient, warning that political slogans cannot substitute for genuine cost-of-living support as households face mounting bills and an energy price cap increase.

The Labour Party conference begins on Sunday, with the energy price cap set to rise by 4% to £1,723 annually for average households from 1 October. Doogan argued that Burnham's promise of hope "rings hollow" when people are experiencing higher energy, food and fuel prices, and called instead for tangible financial help. He used the criticism to advance the SNP's argument for Scottish independence, claiming Westminster's cost-of-living policies have made Scots poorer over two decades and that Scotland could better support households through its energy resources if independent.