Andy Burnham has attributed a decade of stagnant growth in the UK to the impacts of Brexit and the policies of Margaret Thatcher, suggesting that the country needs to confront a series of misguided decisions made over the past 40 years. In his first appearance in the House of Commons since assuming the role of Prime Minister approximately six weeks ago, Burnham expressed his desire to cultivate a renewed sense of optimism, with the aim of improving the upcoming decade compared to the last.

During his address to Members of Parliament, he emphasized the public’s demand for more significant changes on pressing issues confronting the nation. “Britain is not where any of us would hope it to be. Things are not functioning as they ought to,” he remarked.

Economists have indicated that the UK economy has suffered a 6% decline due to the repercussions of Brexit, based on an analysis of data from the Bank of England that includes numerous British firms since the referendum a decade ago.

Burnham’s debut in the Commons coincided with the announcement from Keir Starmer, his predecessor, that he would resign as an MP to focus on international matters. This development presents a challenging byelection scenario for Burnham in a constituency where the Green Party believes they have a strong chance.

On Tuesday, members of the cabinet were informed that the government would focus on three primary objectives: reducing the costs of essentials like childcare and mortgages, revitalizing communities, and enhancing public control over water, housing, and energy resources. According to reports from the Guardian, Burnham’s deputy, Louise Haigh, will spearhead task forces addressing these issues. He urged his ministers to be “relentless” in pursuing these priorities.

Burnham’s agenda unfolds against a challenging economic landscape. If the current global bond sell-off continues, the Chancellor’s financial flexibility regarding Labour’s fiscal guidelines could potentially be cut in half during his first budget. Additionally, experts predict that mortgage rates may rise this autumn.

In his statement to the Commons, Burnham also:

• Suggested a commitment to allocate 3% of GDP for defense by 2030, citing the appointment of John Healey as Chancellor due to his stance on military spending.
• Indicated a willingness to consider the renationalization of the water industry, describing it as a “leaking monument” to the failures of privatization and expressing his intention to explore “all possible solutions.”
• Opened discussions on the potential for electoral reform in Labour’s forthcoming manifesto, stating that a consensus will be necessary for any changes to take place in the next parliament.
• Confirmed his attendance at the upcoming Cop31 climate summit in Turkey and reiterated the government’s commitment to pursuing green energy, while also emphasizing a pragmatic approach to energy supply, mentioning the anticipated approval of the Jackdaw gas field.

Standing alongside Healey and Haigh, Burnham suggested that the Brexit vote was a reaction to a series of poor decisions made in Britain since the 1980s, which were further exacerbated by leaving the EU. He noted that his Makerfield constituency, which supported Brexit, has prompted him to argue against holding another referendum while expressing a desire for the UK to rejoin the EU during his lifetime. He indicated that a reset summit between the UK and EU could be possible in November.

“Political power has been centralized, while economic power has been privatized, leading to the de-industrialization of the nation. Austerity measures have further weakened local councils, stripping them of the ability to effect change,” he explained during his extensive address in the Commons. “Brexit has only intensified these issues, resulting in a decade of sluggish growth and halted regeneration. To initiate change, we must first acknowledge our past mistakes. Without this honesty, we cannot hope to reverse our circumstances.” He added, “Instead of regaining control, the policies implemented over the past 40 years have removed it from local communities.”

He concluded by promising that his government would be unwavering in delivering the ownership and control that people were promised a decade ago, asserting that such control is essential for driving change and fostering growth.

In response, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Burnham for being stuck in the past with his critiques of Thatcher, who served as Prime Minister from 1979 to 1990. “It’s 2026, yet the Prime Minister continues to blame everything on the 1980s and Margaret Thatcher, a figure who held office before I was born. He is fixated on a bygone era and seems intent on dragging us back to the 1970s,” she stated.

In his address, Burnham acknowledged Starmer’s contributions, noting that he had laid a foundation for addressing the nation’s challenges and that “we will utilize it effectively.” Just hours earlier, Starmer had disclosed his intention to step down as MP for Holborn and St Pancras, despite earlier plans to remain in office until the next election.

Starmer expressed, “It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to represent the finest constituency in the country. I will now shift my focus to other areas, particularly international affairs, including defense, security, trade, and technology in our rapidly changing world.” The Greens are likely to target Starmer’s seat, with party leader Zack Polanski, a member of the London Assembly, expressing interest in becoming a London MP.

As the byelection in Makerfield is seen as a litmus test for Burnham’s ability to counter Reform, the north London seat will also serve to evaluate his progressive credentials. Labour is set to select a candidate to succeed Starmer next Wednesday.