Andy Burnham is beginning to sound like Keir Starmer with a northern accent

At COP31 in Türkiye, Andy Burnham’s speech echoed Keir Starmer’s language, including describing climate change as a national security issue and saying “Britain is back”. The article argues that the similarity raises doubts about Burnham’s promise of radical change and whether his government is shifting policy or mainly changing its presentation.

The piece points to continued North Sea oil and gas drilling, relaxed electric vehicle targets and uncertainty over the influence of the new climate security representative. It says Burnham has accepted the 2024 manifesto’s commitments, including on tax, and has so far favoured incremental policies. A 10-year plan expected before Christmas may offer more clarity, though the article suggests the government could avoid major decisions until the next election.