Voices: Why Burnham could be the longest-serving PM since Blair
John Rentoul argues that, despite Andrew Neil’s criticism of Andy Burnham as the latest in a line of unfit prime ministers, Burnham could remain in office after the next election and serve longer than any prime minister since Tony Blair. Rentoul sees Burnham’s tendency to revise or qualify statements as political flexibility that may help him manage difficult choices and build a broad electoral coalition.
Neil’s criticisms include Burnham’s loose remarks about a criminal trial, his links to Manchester City’s Abu Dhabi owners, sanctions on West Bank settlers, renewed discussion of EU membership and delays on social care, defence spending and Heathrow expansion. Rentoul considers this a relatively thin charge sheet, while describing Burnham as an anti-Blairite on class, the state and foreign policy who has nevertheless appealed to voters drawn to both the Greens and Reform. He expects the next election in 2028 or 2029 and says the approaching Budget will test how Burnham handles unpopular decisions.
- Rentoul thinks Burnham could outlast every PM since Blair.
- Critics cite shifting remarks and delayed decisions.
- A looming Budget will test his political flexibility.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Burnham’s tendency to qualify or revise positions could be seen as pragmatic flexibility, helping him respond to difficult circumstances and hold together voters with different priorities. His appeal across parts of the Green and Reform electorates may give him room to build a durable coalition, while the criticisms cited so far may be too limited to show he could not govern effectively.
The case against
The same shifts in position could look like inconsistency, leaving voters unsure what Burnham would do when difficult choices arise. His loose remarks about a criminal trial, reported links to Manchester City’s Abu Dhabi owners, and delays or changes of emphasis on issues such as social care, defence and Heathrow could raise questions about judgement, priorities and whether his broad appeal can endure under pressure.