New polling shows a boost for Labour following Andy Burnham's ascension to Prime Minister, with his personal approval ratings the highest recorded for any incumbent PM since Theresa May. The findings suggest a potential "honeymoon" effect that could reshape Labour's electoral prospects after a difficult period, though opposition figures are already pushing back hard on his policy agenda, particularly around taxation.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has challenged Burnham to rule out further tax rises to fund what she called his "spending spree", likening the new premier to Liz Truss and branding him a "people pleaser". The comparison comes as reports circulate of a possible 10% levy affecting estates as part of inheritance tax changes, prompting wealth advisers to issue guidance on steps savers could take to protect their assets ahead of any reform.