Prime Minister Andy Burnham has abandoned his pledge to sit in his usual seat at Everton matches, instead taking a place in the directors' box for the club's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace on the opening day of the season. Last month he had insisted he would "find a way" to remain among ordinary fans in the stands, saying it was important to stay "true to his instincts" and keep in touch with the public. The move mirrors that of Sir Keir Starmer, who faced criticism for accepting a privileged seat at Arsenal matches, and raises questions about politicians' pledges to remain relatable once in power.

Burnham was joined at the Hill Dickinson Stadium by his wife, Marie-France van Heel, daughter Rosie, and former Everton midfielder Peter Reid. It is understood he switched seats because he did not want to displace other supporters near his usual spot to make room for his close protection officers, and instead accepted the club's offer of a more comfortable seat in the directors' box near the halfway line. He is expected to continue sitting there or in the directors' lounge for the rest of the season and will need to declare the value of the ticket as a donation on the Parliamentary register.