British Prime Minister Andy Burnham faced his first Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday since replacing Keir Starmer in July, pledging to fully fund the Defence Investment Plan and meet the UK’s NATO commitments by 2035.
Burnham also said his government would balance fiscal discipline with relief for families facing a severe cost-of-living crisis, after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch challenged how the administration would finance its commitments as government borrowing has risen.
Defence pledge meets economic criticism
Burnham rejected suggestions that economic pressure had weakened the government’s defence position, telling MPs there was “no problem” with its commitment to defence. He attributed market instability to the economic record of the previous Conservative government.
The exchange with Badenoch took place during the weekly Commons session, which is often marked by sharp and noisy political confrontation. For additional context, see “UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham Was Targeted by a White House Impostor”.
A call for solidarity with Germany and Ukraine
The prime minister also addressed international security, referring to a recent attempted attack on Leipzig/Halle airport that the German government has blamed on Russia.
Burnham called on lawmakers from all parties to show complete solidarity with Germany and Ukraine as regional geopolitical tensions escalate.
Long-term agenda focuses on essential services
Burnham said he would publish a 10-year plan for the UK before the end of the year. He said the roadmap would set out stronger public control over essential services, particularly energy and water utilities, arguing that the cost of basic services is holding back economic growth.
He said household energy bills were the highest in Europe and were affecting businesses and inward investment. Burnham described the government’s initial measures as an effort to give households and businesses some breathing space while it pursues wider change. A related part of this story is covered in “Pakistan’s former prime minister transferred to Shifa International Hospital”.
What happens next
Burnham’s government is expected to set out its 10-year national plan before the end of the year, while the household electricity-bill tax cut is scheduled to take effect next month.
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