Channel 4 — Channel 4 News Summary

Keir Starmer delivered his final address as Prime Minister from outside Number 10, listing achievements including a stronger economy, reduced immigration, and improved public services, before resigning to the King. Andy Burnham then met the King at Buckingham Palace and was invited to form a government, becoming the seventh Prime Minister since 2016. In his first speech outside Downing Street, Burnham acknowledged public frustration with politics and pledged a new political and economic model, including stronger public control over essentials, a ten-year plan, and immediate cost-of-living measures to be announced from tomorrow. He also issued his first instruction as Prime Minister: to end rough sleeping.

Analysis during the broadcast noted that Burnham enters office without a fully worked-out plan, though he has a vision shaped by his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester, including bus re-regulation and devolution. His team is expected to be announced quickly, with Shabana Mahmood tipped as Chancellor and Ed Miliband ruled out for that role. The new Prime Minister faces immediate challenges including rising gas prices, the cost-of-living crisis, and a difficult relationship with US President Donald Trump, particularly over Iran and North Sea drilling. Polling suggests the public is hopeful but expects tangible progress within six months to a year.