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Andy Burnham pledges devolution and public service reforms in first Commons speech as prime minister

The prime minister outlined broad domestic priorities, including regional devolution, leasehold reform, and stronger public control of essential services.

Updated Sep 1, 2026 · 20:25 UTC3 reports

The short version

  • Andy Burnham made his debut address to the House of Commons as prime minister, outlining his government's agenda after taking office in July.
  • The government plans to expand devolution deals across England without requiring elected mayors, reform leaseholds, and evaluate stronger public control over water, housing, and energy.
  • Former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer announced he will resign as an MP to focus on international affairs, triggering a by-election in Holborn and St Pancras.
  • Key policy details, including the timeline for raising defence spending to 3% of GDP and plans for essential service takeovers, remain to be finalized in upcoming reviews.

Key facts

  • Andy Burnham addressed the House of Commons for the first time since becoming prime minister on July 20, marking the opening of the new parliamentary session.[BBC News · BBC News · The Guardian]
  • Burnham announced three core government priorities led by Deputy Prime Minister Louise Haigh: cutting everyday costs, regenerating communities, and pursuing greater public control over sectors such as water, energy, and housing.[The Guardian]
  • The prime minister pledged to extend devolution deals across England, including pursuing an agreement with Cornwall Council and its MPs that does not mandate an elected mayor.[BBC News · BBC News]
  • Burnham confirmed the government will introduce a Commonhold and Leasehold Bill during the current parliamentary session to reform the leasehold property system.[BBC News · BBC News]
  • Sir Keir Starmer announced his intention to step down as MP for Holborn and St Pancras, prompting an upcoming by-election.[BBC News · BBC News · The Guardian]
  • Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Burnham's platform, asserting that it would lead to increased taxation, state control, and additional politicians.[BBC News · The Guardian]
  • Burnham stated he will attend the COP31 climate summit in Turkey and noted he would examine electoral reform for a future manifesto, but ruled out changes prior to the next general election.[BBC News · BBC News · The Guardian]

What remains uncertain

  • The specific timeline for reaching the proposed 3% GDP defence spending target remains unset, with Chancellor John Healey expected to outline dates during the spring spending review.[BBC News]
  • The precise mechanisms and legislative proposals for expanding public control over water and energy services are pending a government plan scheduled for later in the year.[BBC News · The Guardian]

Sources