Consider it a gentle reminder of reality, a recalibration of expectations. It serves as a subtle nudge to both Andy Burnham and Labour backbenchers that the international bond markets remain unaffected by the charm and optimism of Manchester. Despite a series of uplifting announcements from the government over the summer, the undeniable truth persists: the nation is facing significant challenges. The road ahead promises to be arduous, and there will be no easy solutions.
Nonetheless, a new prime minister must learn to appreciate any victories, no matter how minimal. In the larger context, a successful performance during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) holds little weight; it often amounts to mere political theater. However, it can help establish a favorable atmosphere and garner goodwill from both MPs and the media. Given its weekly occurrence, excelling in it becomes a necessity.
Burnham can take pride in his initial performance, even if it diverged from expectations. There had been promises of a more collaborative political atmosphere and an end to scoring points against one another, but this lasted only a brief moment before reverting to the usual dynamics. This shift was partly due to the inherent nature of PMQs, but primarily because Burnham could not resist the urge to engage in the fray.
Resisting would have required extraordinary self-control, especially since Kemi Badenoch made it incredibly easy for him. Time and again, Labour’s advantage lies in the missteps of the Tory leader, who often speaks impulsively, lost in her own self-importance, and fails to recognize the pitfalls she creates. At the very least, Kemi ensures that the proceedings are anything but dull, although it is perplexing why numerous Conservatives seem to buy into her rhetoric.
At the outset, it was evident that Burnham felt anxious, a completely understandable sentiment. He appeared restless and not entirely in control. PMQs can be a daunting experience, particularly for a leader on whom the hopes of Labour are heavily reliant, a burden that Burnham has also placed upon himself.
“It’s good to be back at the dispatch box,” he stated, proceeding to highlight some achievements of the Labour government, such as a notable decline in small boat crossings. The Tory MPs barely acknowledged his remarks, almost as if they had never been particularly concerned about illegal immigration, and they certainly weren’t inclined to credit Labour for any progress. Opposition parties often thrive on a crisis, seemingly oblivious to the reality that they might one day be tasked with addressing it.
Kemi started her responses with a flirtatious tone, complimenting Burnham on his endurance. He simply nodded in acknowledgment, as many had remarked on this to him. However, Kemi soon shifted gears, expressing her frustration. This was Burnham’s challenge: he often overpromises and rarely says no, appearing too eager for approval to effectively lead. She pressed him to mention any cuts he had enacted.
After a brief pause, Burnham confidently replied, “Tax.” This effectively shifted the momentum of PMQs. Kemi had anticipated a more evasive response akin to that of Keir Starmer, but she was unprepared for Burnham’s straightforward answer. He detailed how he had eliminated VAT on electricity bills and reduced business rates for pubs and hospitality sectors, opting not to complicate matters by referencing the cuts to a nonexistent budget for digital ID.
Next, Kemi addressed the bond markets, implying they had a bias against Labour. Burnham maintained a respectful demeanor, clarifying that the international bond markets bore no personal animosity towards him. The situation was not about him; it was a broader issue, affecting many nations facing rising borrowing costs. If Kemi wished to identify the source of the problem, she could reflect on her own party’s fourteen years of stagnant growth, which had contributed to the economic challenges. The Tory party had damaged the economy, and he was merely attempting to mend it. Additionally, he could have pointed to the war in Iran and its subsequent impact on oil prices, a conflict Kemi had initially supported, highlighting her inconsistent judgment.
Kemi appeared visibly upset, feeling as though a commitment had been breached. Burnham had claimed he would refrain from point scoring, yet he was doing just that. Unapologetically, he acknowledged his inability to resist the temptation, relishing the laughter and support from his backbenchers. For him, PMQs transcended personal ambition; it was a collective endeavor.
Emboldened, Burnham seized further opportunities to score points. Kemi had yet to realize how exposed she had made herself by appointing Andrew Griffith as shadow chancellor, a figure who had co-authored Liz Truss’s controversial mini-budget and vocally defended it.
This presented Labour with an open opportunity, and they were poised to capitalize on it repeatedly. Kemi might be someone who dismisses historical context, believing each day to be a fresh start. However, the public remains far from forgiving the Conservative party for the enduring fallout from a brief period of chaos. Hence, the self-inflicted wounds within the party are likely to persist for some time.
After failing to dismiss the possibility of further tax increases and spending commitments, Burnham returned to his comfort zone, radiating positivity and hope. This approach contributed to a relatively successful first PMQs for him, although he likely understands that this brief moment of respite will not last, as the challenges outside the chamber will only intensify.
Despite Burnham’s buoyant demeanor, he seems to thrive on work, spending the remainder of the session proposing meetings with nearly every MP. Before long, his life may become dominated by an endless series of meetings or discussions about the necessity of meetings. Nonetheless, he might find enjoyment in his upcoming meeting with Samantha Niblett, who has publicly proclaimed her intention to enjoy a summer of romance and share her experiences widely.
Not everything unfolded in Burnham’s favor, as he faced some dissent from a disgruntled MP.
