Summary
Donald Trump recently commended UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham for his commitment to expanding North Sea drilling, a move that has drawn attention amid Burnham's ongoing policy initiatives. Trump referred to Burnham as the "new gentleman," suggesting a level of respect, though he appeared to struggle with recalling the Prime Minister's name. This exchange occurred during a conversation with GB News, where Trump reiterated his concerns about wind energy and migration issues affecting the UK.
In the realm of assisted dying legislation, Burnham's stance has stirred debate. He expressed reluctance to advance the private members bill until social and palliative care issues are addressed, a position that has drawn criticism from supporters of the bill. Labour MP Lauren Edwards indicated that the proposed changes to assisted dying law would not take effect until 2031, allowing time for necessary reforms. Burnham's cautious approach signals a shift from previous leadership, as he emphasizes the need for comprehensive care solutions before considering changes to assisted dying laws.
Burnham's recent public appearances have showcased his oratory skills, with a notable speech that resonated well with the public, reflected in a significant boost in his approval ratings. He is actively promoting initiatives aimed at re-industrializing Britain, particularly through defense contracts that promise job creation. However, critics point out that many of these announcements are rehashes of previous commitments, lacking immediate impact.
As Burnham continues to navigate his early tenure, he faces the challenge of delivering on ambitious promises while managing public expectations. His administration's focus on communication and rhetoric has been evident, but tangible changes remain to be seen as he prepares for the upcoming parliamentary sessions.
Show Notes
Andy Burnham has thrown the future of assisted dying into doubt. After telling Sam Coates that he does not want legislation to proceed until social care and palliative care are "fixed", supporters of the bill insist they are pressing ahead. But has the Prime Minister's intervention made its passage through Parliament far less likely? Sam and Anne examine what Burnham's comments mean for MPs ahead of the crucial September vote. Plus, new polling from POLITICO shows again the ‘Burnham bounce’ as his approval rating goes up in every demographic, except one – Reform voters. What will this mean in the long term? And, before Sam and Anne take some time off over summer, what do they make of Burnham’s first two weeks?
More from Politics At Sam and Anne's
At its core will this be a John Healey or Andy Burnham budget – and will it deliver any real breathing space? With the biggest fiscal event of the year looming, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine some of the cabinet divisions across a range of topics including oil drilling, migration policy and a new relationship with Europe. Plus, is the Prime Minister reopening Labour’s battle over Europe and free movement? Where are the red lines for the party, Andy Burnham and the country?
Can the government find more cuts across Whitehall to fund its NATO defence commitments? With less than a week to the budget, Treasury minister – Emma Reynolds – says squeezing more efficiency out of SW1 could free up cash for defence. But with public services already under pressure, where can the cuts be made without making things worse? Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy crunch the numbers, look at which sectors are already flashing the warning signs and which policies the Prime Minister could scrap to score a political win. Elsewhere, is Education Secretary – Lucy Powell – planning on making shifts in the department after a luke warm response to keeping Sir Martyn Oliver as the chief inspector of OFSTED?
The Jackdaw gas field has been approved by the government. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh says the decision will support the country’s energy security and that it is compatible with legally binding climate commitments. Critics say the move breaks the spirit of the 2024 Labour manifesto – and makes Andy Burnham look likes he’s living in a “parallel universe” after the hottest summer on record. Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy discuss how he goes about squaring the circle of gas drilling with potential budget cuts to green projects?
John Healey’s first budget is shrouded in secrecy so how come we know he won’t be touching capital gains tax? Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy ponder whether the Treasury is worried about growth and discuss how Kemi Badenoch is trying to get the Conservatives on an economic front foot. Plus, they pull apart the weekly polling numbers, and Sam’s got a story about the wait times for parents of SEND children.
Having more than a million young people not in education, employment or training is an “economic catastrophe” according to the prime minister. So, what will the government do about it? With Alan Milburn’s long-awaited review due next month, is Andy Burnham laying the groundwork for tougher benefit conditions in the budget – as ministers look to rein in the spiralling welfare bill? Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine how the report’s findings could complicate the government’s plans for reform. Plus, Anne has the latest on the protests in France and a stark warning over the political cost of attempting to shrink the size of the state.