Stay up-to-date with all the latest political coverage from GB News below
Andy Burnham has laid down the gauntlet to his own Labour MPs, saying in his first address as Prime Minister the Government so far “has not been good enough”.
Speaking unusually without a podium from outside No10, the Makerfield MP said this is “a moment for reflection and new resolution” and Britain must “regain our stability once again”.
Announcing his 10-year plan for Britain, he said: “I have just come from Buckingham Palace where I have accepted His Majesty the King's invitation to form a Government.
“In doing so, I am acutely conscious that I am the sixth person in the last 10 years to walk up this street, the seventh prime minister since 2016, making this a moment for reflection and new resolution.
“It requires my generation of politicians to raise our game and rise to the new challenge.
“Britain needs to show the world that we can regain our stability once again and that is our challenge to make politics work, to make it work better.
“I know people at home are fed up with politics. I hear you, and I want to be honest with you. We have not been good enough and we need to be better. We will be.
"We will make this moment a circuit breaker for Britain, bringing forward the biggest changes in the last 40 years. A new political model and a new economic model.”
His comments came before his Cabinet reshuffle, with the likes of Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy and Attorney General Lord Hermer being purged from Mr Burnham's Cabinet.
Lisa Nandy 'very' happy to stay on Culture beat
Lisa Nandy, who has kept her job as Culture Secretary, told reporters she was “very” happy with her job as she left Downing Street smiling tonight.
Angela Rayner reappointed as Housing Secretary despite failing to pay tax on £800,000 flat
Angela Rayner has been reappointed as Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary – 10 months after she left the role for failing to pay enough tax on her £800,000 flat in Hove, East Sussex.
Jonathan Reynolds, who was previously Business and Trade Secretary, as well as President of the Board of Trade, is back in the role.
Labour's Deputy Leader Lucy Powell MP has replaced Bridget Phillipson as Education Secretary, although the latter will remain in Cabinet as Minister for Women and Equalities.
No mention of migration in Andy Burnham-Emmanuel Macron talk transcript
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has spoken to French President Emmanuel Macron.
A Downing Street spokesman said: “The Prime Minister began by setting out how he is looking forward to building on the strong UK-France relationship to deliver for people on both sides of the Channel.
“Turning to Ukraine, the two leaders discussed the need to work together to continue supporting Ukraine as it resists Russia’s full-scale invasion, including through co-chairing the Coalition of the Willing.
“On the Middle East, the two leaders agreed the need to continue efforts towards deescalation and to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
“They also discussed continuing the UK and France’s close co-operation on energy and defence, and the Prime Minister paid tribute to President Macron for his efforts to bring the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK, which underlined the UK and France’s enduring friendship.
“The two leaders look forward to speaking again and the Prime Minister welcoming President Macron to the United Kingdom at the earliest opportunity.”
John Healey insists Andy Burnham 'will meet UK's commitments on defence'
John Healey has said the new Government led by Andy Burnham “will meet our commitments on defence to our international allies”.
The new Chancellor was asked by broadcasters on Monday night if he would meet a commitment to spend 3 per cent of national economic output on defence by 2030.
Mr Healey expressed frustration Sir Keir Starmer had not set out a clear timetable for the commitment when he resigned last month as defence secretary.
Asked if welfare cuts or new taxes were on the cards to meet the goal, Mr Healey said: “Fiscal control is the first duty of any chancellor. It is mine. And fiscal credibility is the bedrock for economic stability and for national security.
"You heard the Prime Minister this afternoon say, in this more dangerous world, we will meet our commitments on defence to our international allies.”
Ed Miliband promises to 'fight for Britain’s interests'
Ed Miliband has said the Foreign Office will be “at the forefront of issues which pose profound and substantial threats to justice and equality in Britain and across the world” under his stewardship.
In a statement shared on social media, he said: “It is a great honour and privilege to have been appointed by the Prime Minister to serve as Foreign Secretary.
“My parents came to Britain as Jewish refugees from the Nazis. To them, Britain was both a sanctuary and a beacon of hope in the global fight against fascism. I will carry my parents’ faith in that spirit of Britain to my role representing our country.
“I will be a Foreign Secretary who fights for Britain’s interests and our values of democracy, freedom and the rule of law on the world stage.”
He promised to maintain close ties with both the EU and the United States, as well as upholding Britain’s commitments to Nato and the United Nations.
Mr Miliband added: “The FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) I lead will also be at the forefront of issues which pose profound and substantial threats to justice and equality in Britain and across the world.
“We will work with others on tackling the climate crisis, strengthening our partnerships for international development, and reforming our international institutions so they deliver for all countries, including the world’s poorest people.”
Yvette Cooper switches to Department of Health
Yvette Cooper has been appointed as Andy Burnham's Health Secretary, while Pat McFadden will remain as Work and Pensions Secretary, Downing Street has just announced.
In 1999, the former foreign and home secretary was made a junior health minister at the age of 30 – the youngest at the time.
She gave the media outside Downing Street a big smile as she left No10 alongside Mr McFadden.
Ann Widdecombe murder suspect charged as police provide major update
A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe, the Crown Prosecution Service has said.
The former Conservative minister-turned-Reform UK spokeswoman was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at about 11.40am on July 8 after sustaining serious injuries.
Kerry, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning.
Ed Miliband promoted to Foreign Secretary as more Cabinet roles revealed
Ed Miliband, the Energy and Net Zero Secretary, is taking over from Yvette Cooper as Foreign Secretary in Andy Burnham's Cabinet.
The Labour MP also served as leader of the party from 2010 to 2015.
Louise Haigh, who resigned as Transport Secretary after it emerged she had been convicted of fraud, is the new First Secretary of State, while Shabana Mahmood will remain as Home Secretary.
EU relations minister leaves his post
Nick Thomas-Symonds has confirmed he will leave his post as the European Union relations minister and paymaster general.
In a letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham, he said: “I will support the new team of ministers from the backbenches and continue to serve the people of my home constituency of Torfaen, who, as always, remain my top priority.”
Andy Burnham appoints John Healey as Chancellor in shock move for Labour
Andy Burnham has appointed John Healey as Chancellor, replacing Rachel Reeves, following much speculation over who will head the Treasury.
Sir Keir Starmer's former Defence Secretary was not in the shortlist for the role, with Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood being the main frontrunners.
Mr Healey famously resigned from his role under the former Prime Minister on principle after a stand-off between himself and Ms Reeves over a lack of funding for defence.
More resignations from Labour Cabinet
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn has announced he is leaving the role.
He said: “I wish my successor all the very best in working with the Executive to protect stability, continuing to generate growth and investment and in taking forward the Troubles Bill which is so important for so many families."
Meanwhile, Foreign Office minister Baroness Jenny Chapman announced she is leaving Government, as she said cutting the aid budget had been “challenging” and required “much soul searching”.
She added: “We have a modern strategy and approach, working in partnership with developing countries rather than in a paternalistic way, and keeping strong commitments on global health and humanitarian aid.”
Andy Burnham congratulates Donald Trump on successful World Cup
More details have emerged on Andy Burnham's call with Donald Trump earlier today.
A Downing Street spokesman said: "The Prime Minister spoke to the President of the United States, Donald Trump, shortly after taking office this afternoon.
"The Prime Minister began by congratulating the President on a successful World Cup and agreed that England had an excellent tournament.
"The Prime Minister also hoped that he would be able to show the President what Manchester had to offer during a visit in the future.
"Setting out his vision as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister said he would be focused on ensuring reindustrialisation up and down the country to ensure good growth in every postcode.
"The Prime Minister also underlined his commitment to defence and security and said ensuring the security of the UK and its Allies was at the top of his agenda.
"The President then updated on the situation in the Middle East, and the Prime Minister outlined the UK's commitment to securing the movement of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to support global supply chains and drive down costs for businesses and families across the country.
"They looked forward to speaking again soon."
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who had both been the subject of speculation they could become Chancellor, walked into No10 together.
Former defence secretary John Healey was the first person to enter Downing Street, indicating he could be in line for a senior role.
Darren Jones 'won’t be a part of' Andy Burnham’s Cabinet
Sir Keir Starmer’s chief secretary Darren Jones has said he “won’t be a part of” Andy Burnham’s Cabinet.
He wrote on X: “From the campaign trail and the TV studios to the Treasury, No 10 and the Cabinet Office – it’s been a privilege to be in the cabinet of a Labour Government and to serve the country.
“Andy Burnham has called to tell me I won’t be a part of his new Cabinet. I wish him and his team every success.”
Jo Stevens, the Welsh Secretary, has also departed the Government.
Rachel Reeves’s record as Chancellor slammed as ‘pretty abysmal’ by Sir Mel Stride after Cabinet exit
Rachel Reeves was dealt a scathing verdict by Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride, who described her time at the Treasury as “pretty abysmal”.
Speaking to GB News, the Tory MP said his former opposite number had left the British economy in a “very perilous state” while at the helm of the nation’s finances.
“I'm afraid her record in office has been pretty abysmal,” Sir Mel began.
“She has left the economy in a very perilous state. She's overtaxed, she's overborrowed, she's overspent.”
The Shadow Chancellor also pointed to rising unemployment as evidence of Labour's economic failings.
“We've seen unemployment rocketing up to a five-year high, particularly bad for young people,” he said.
Despite his brutal verdict, Sir Mel hailed Ms Reeves’s place in history as Britain's first female Chancellor.
He also acknowledged she had attempted to reduce welfare spending but was blocked by Labour backbenchers, an issue he predicted would haunt her successor.
Sir Mel warned he expected “more spending, more taxing, more borrowing” under New Prime Minister Andy Burnham who would “double down on the kind of mistakes that the (Sir Keir) Starmer government made”.
Liz Kendall dismissed by Andy Burnham
Liz Kendall, the Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary, has been dismissed by Andy Burnham.
She said "serving my fellow citizens in a Labour Government has been the privilege of my life" and was “proud to stand up to Elon Musk and Grok, ban nudification apps and help make the online world safer for women and girls”.
Ms Kendall added: "I have had the chance to change lives for the better, delivering greater equality and expanding opportunity to build a better future for all.
"While being in government is never easy, every day in office has been a reminder of the difference Labour can make when we are in power."
Lord Hermer gone as Attorney General
Sir Keir Starmer’s Attorney General, Lord Richard Hermer, has confirmed he is leaving Labour's Cabinet, emphasising he will support new Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s government from the backbenches.
He said in a statement posted to Bluesky: "I've been so lucky to be part of Keirs team... rebuilding the UK's reputation abroad, in particular in the rule of law.
"Andy and his team know they have my utmost support, and I wish them nothing but success.”
Andy Burnham 'invites Donald Trump to Manchester'
Andy Burnham has invited Donald Trump to visit Manchester, according to reports.
The former Greater Manchester mayor used his first call with the US President today to invite him to Britain's third biggest city.
And the Republican said he would like to take the Labour Prime Minister – whom he previously described as "mayor of a town" – up on the offer, an official told Politico.
Andy Burnham fails to rule out introducing 50p tax rate and hints at lifting personal income allowance
Andy Burnham has hinted he might lift the personal income tax allowance and failed to rule out introducing a new 50p tax rate, writes Political Editor Christopher Hope.
The new Prime Minister expressed concerns that a freeze in the personal allowance meant that more pensioners are being dragged into paying income tax.
The income level at which people start to pay income tax has been frozen at £12,570 since 2012, five years ago, and is due to remain frozen until 2031.
This means that as people's pay and pensions increase, more and more are finding that they have to pay income tax.
Andy Burnham to fast-track social care reforms in first major act as Prime Minister after warning crisis is 'not defensible'
Andy Burnham has said the failure to fix Britain's social care crisis is "not defensible", accusing politicians of allowing the problem to drag on for decades.
The Prime Minister said too many people had lost their homes and life savings because successive governments had failed to act.
He insisted he was prepared to spend his "political capital" on reform, arguing that fixing social care would also ease pressure on the NHS.
"It's not defensible," Mr Burnham said. "How many people have lost their homes and their savings in that time? We need to face it and fix it."
Chancellor Rachel Reeves leaves No11
Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, has announced she is leaving No11.
In a letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Ms Reeves, who is expected to be replaced by Shabana Mahmood, states: "It has been the privilege of my life to serve as the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
"The economy today is stronger, fairer and more resilient because of the choices we have taken as a Labour Government over the past two years.
"Stability restored, investment delivered and reform to our economy under way. I said when I was appointed Chancellor that I would judge my time in office if the lives ordinary working-class people have been improved. I’m proud to say that they have.
"And to every young woman and girl, let my time in office show there should be no ceilings on your ambitions, your hopes or your dreams.
"I wish the very best of luck to my successor, Andy and his cabinet. You have my full support, and I will continue to play my part in helping this Labour government deliver the change the country needs."
GB News understands she was offered a big job in Mr Burnham's top team but declined the offer.
David Lammy out as Deputy Prime Minister
David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, is the next major casualty of Andy Burnham's reshuffle, announcing he is stepping down from Government.
On X, Mr Lammy said he "would have been proud to continue serving" but Mr Bunrham was "entitled to build his own team", adding: It has been the greatest privilege of my life, coming from humble beginnings in Tottenham, to serve in government as Keir Starmer's Foreign Secretary, Justice Secretary and Britain’s first Black Deputy Prime Minister.
"I am immensely proud of what we achieved, in Opposition and in Government. As Foreign Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister, I helped rebuild Britain’s relationships with our European allies after the catastrophic Brexit years, stood steadfastly with Ukraine in its darkest hours, championed a new partnership of equals with the Global South and was proud to play a leading role in Britain’s recognition of the State of Palestine.
"I worked to secure the Special Relationship with the United States in a new era and deepened our partnerships with the Gulf and India to deliver trade, growth and security for the British people.
"As Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor, I put record investment in our courts to begin stabilising the backlog for victims left waiting too long for justice, put in changes to take our prisons back from the brink to prevent a collapse in prison capacity ever again, put massive investment in the probation service and victims and helped deliver the Hillsborough Law.
"I also put in place a new approach to improving the diversity of our judiciary and made the Ministry of Justice a Whitehall leader in harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence.
"I will continue to serve the great people of Tottenham, support this Labour government from the backbenches and do everything I can to help defeat Reform again at the next general election."
Meanwhile, Peter Kyle, the Business Secretary, has reportedly been sacked from Labour's frontbench.
Andy Burnham speaks to Donald Trump for first time since becoming PM
Donald Trump, the United States President, has spoken to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham in one of his first phone calls since entering No10, White House sources have confirmed.
The Republican, who was at the World Cup final in New Jersey yesterday, described him as “extremely liberal” last month, before announcing any of his Cabinet appointments.
In an interview last year with the London Economic, Mr Burnham drew a line between disruptive UK politics under the Conservatives and Mr Trump's global impact, stating: "The instability that Liz Truss brought to Britain, I think Trump is bringing to the US and the world."
Steve Reed first victim of Andy Burnham reshuffle
Steve Reed, the Housing Secretary, has become the first victim of Andy Burnham's reshuffle.
The Labour MP, a loyalist to Sir Keir Starmer, revealed he is no longer Housing Secretary and said in a letter he is “disappointed to be leaving Government now”.
He wrote: “We won power the hard way. I was part of the campaign that fought to save our party and take it back to power against all the odds after our worst-ever election defeat. In 2017, I set up a group that played a significant role in exposing and driving out the anti-Jewish racists who’d occupied our party and led it to being found institutionally racist. I was proud to be part of the team that then turned the party around under Keir’s leadership and took us forward to a landslide election victory.”
Tories respond to Andy Burnham's pledge to end rough sleeping
Sir James Cleverly MP, Shadow Housing Secretary, said: “In his speech in Downing Street, Burnham promised he would ‘go through that door behind me and issue my first instruction to end rough sleeping in our country.’
"But there is precious little detail on how this will be paid for. Burnham must come clean on what other MHCLG programmes have been salami-sliced to fill the gap.
“In Manchester, Burnham promised to end rough sleeping, but failed because he didn’t do the hard work necessary.
"Now, again, he is making pledges without any plan for delivery.
“If he is really serious about Government, he should lay out proposals cut welfare, fund defence and get Britain working again.
"The Conservatives are the only party that have done the hard work and set out the plan to do that.”
Volodymyr Zelensky congratulates Andy Burnham on his appointment as PM
Volodymyr Zelensky has congratulated Andy Burnham on his appointment as Prime Minister.
The Ukrainian President, who is due to speak on the phone to Mr Burnham later today, took to X to write: "Congratulations to Andy Burnham @andyburnham on taking office as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
"We wish the Prime Minister and the British people every success in addressing the challenges of today.
"Britain has always been one of the global leaders. We are ready to work together in all possible formats.
"We highly appreciate the UK's political, defense, and values-based support.
"The foundation of our bilateral relationship is stronger than ever, and we will continue to make each other stronger.
"I'm looking forward to our conversation later today. Thank you!"
Ursula von der Leyen looks forward to working with Andy Burnham and 'strengthen the EU-UK partnership'
Ursula von der Leyen has congratulated Andy Burnham on his appointment as Prime Minister.
The President of the EU Commission took to X to commend the new UK PM.
She wrote: "Congratulations, dear @andyburnham, on your confirmation as Prime Minister.
"I look forward to working with you to strengthen the EU-UK partnership.
"And the prosperity of people on both sides of the Channel."
Andy Burnham's appointment 'presents good opportunity for Wales', says Rhun ap Iorwerth
Rhun ap Iorwerth has welcomed Andy Burnham's appointment as Prime Minister, stating that it "presents an opportunity to redefine the relationship between the Welsh and UK governments".
The Welsh First Minister said: "I know that Andy Burnham shares my belief in the power of devolution to improve the lives of the people we serve," ap Iorwerth says in a statement.
"In that spirit, I hope we can speak the same language when it comes to devolving powers out of Westminster by strengthening, not bypassing, Wales' national parliament and its ability to empower people and communities."
'Westminster is not working for vast majority of people', says John Swinney
John Swinney has said that Andy Burnham is "correct" as he declared that "Westminster is not working for the vast majority of people".
Scotland's First Minister congratulated the new Prime Minister on his appointment and said that the cost of living crisis "must be an absolute priority".
He added: "Just two months ago, the people of Scotland voted for my government and our commitment to support people with the cost of living, ensure easier and quicker access to the NHS, and deliver the right to choose a fresh start with independence.
"I look forward to constructive conversations with the new prime minister about how we make that happen."
PICTURED: Andy Burnham inside No10
The first images of Andy Burnham inside No10 have been released.
The new Prime Minister stepped into his new residence accompanied by his wife, Marie-France van Heel.
Mr Burnham was applauded as he walked through the hallway of his new home.
Taxpayers' Alliance slams Andy Burnham's speech: 'Taxpayers will be hugely disappointed'
Responding to Andy Burnham’s first speech as prime minister, John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: “Taxpayers will be hugely disappointed by Andy Burnham’s speech, which offered little more than tired cliches and grandiose promises while failing to provide any real plan.
“Anyone who was hoping that Burnham’s coronation would usher in a different kind of politics will feel betrayed when he inevitably reaches for the same old tax-and-spend policies that have failed so miserably in the past.
“If the new prime minister really wants to give hard-working Brits breathing space, he should start by cutting taxes and getting spending under control".
'I bring a lot of experience, but wouldn't be human not to be nervous', says Andy Burnham
Andy Burnham has admitted he is nervous after being appointed Prime Minister.
Despite bringing "a lot of experience" with him, the UK's new PM admitted the "nerves are there".
He told broadcasters ahead of his appointment: "It's obviously a big thing, to step up in this way, but I think you've got to have a degree of [nervousness].
Andy Burnham reveals whether Donald Trump will be his 'first call' as PM
Andy Burnham has revealed who the first foreign leader that he will call today in his role as Prime Minister will be.
Mr Burnham said that Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky will be the first two he will call.
On the war in Ukraine and his call with Mr Zelensky, the new PM told broadcasters ahead of his appointment: "I'll be making very clear later today to President Zelensky that, you know, there is no change. I will be with him 100 per cent, as Keir Starmer has been."
Andy Burnham DECLINES to call General Election
Speaking to broadcasters ahead of his appointment, the new Prime Minister said he will stick to Labour's 2024 manifesto and referred to the UK's parliamentary democracy system as a reason not to call a General Election.
He said: "We're in a parliamentary democracy, and as we've seen through time if somebody can command the majority of the MPs in the House of Commons obviously they then have the legitimacy to lead things forward."
The new PM added: "I will be bold and I will be true to what [the manifesto] says, but there are big changes that I can implement coming from that manifesto."
Andy Burnham ends first speech by urging people to 'pull with me' as new PM
Andy Burnham has ended his first speech as Prime Minister by urging people to "pull with me".
Mr Burnham followed that up and called on the public to “build a new national sense of unity, of common purpose and positivity”.
Andy Burnham promises 10-year plan
Andy Burnham has promised to issue a 10-year plan later this year to lay out what his Government will aim to achieve.
The new Prime Minister added that he will outline measures to help with the cost of living and give people “breathing space” tomorrow.
Andy Burnham reveals first instruction as country's new PM
Andy Burnham has revealed what his first instruction is as the United Kingdom's new Prime Minister.
Speaking during his first speech in his new role, Mr Burnham said he will "end rough sleeping in our country".
Politicians must 'raise our game', says Andy Burnham
The new Prime Minister has issued a rallying cry for politicians of his "generation" to "raise our game".
Speaking outside No10 Downing Street, Mr Burnham said he knows "people at home are fed up with politics".
He added: "I want to be honest with you: We have not been good enough and we need to be better. We will be."
Andy Burnham declares this is moment of 'new resolution'
Andy Burnham has declared this is a moment "for reflection and new resolution" as he delivers his first speech as Prime Minister.
The new PM said Britain must “regain our stability once again” as he addressed the nation for the first time as Prime Minister.
Andy Burnham leaves Buckingham Palace after being appointed as PM and heads towards Downing Street
Andy Burnham has left Buckingham Palace after being appointed as Prime Minister and is making his way to Downing Street to deliver his first speech.
The new PM was seen getting into a car alongside his wife, Marie-France van Heel and is making the short trip over to his new residence.
Andy Burnham meets King Charles and becomes new PM
Andy Burnham has officially become the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom after meeting King Charles.
The new PM went to Buckingham Palace and met His Majesty, who invited him to form a new government in his name.
This marks the Monarch's fourth Prime Minister during his reign.
Andy Burnham arrives at Buckingham Palace to meet the King and become PM
Andy Burnham has arrived at Buckingham Palace, ahead of his meeting with the King.
The Labour leader will be asked to form a government and will officially become the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Andy Burnham expected to arrive at Buckingham Palace soon
Andy Burnham is expected to arrive at Buckingham Palace soon, to meet with King Charles.
Keir Starmer formally resigned to His Majesty a few minutes ago, after delivering his farewell speech outside No10 Downing Street.
His successor is expected to meet the Monarch and be appointed as Prime Minister.
Keir Starmer formally resigns as Prime Minister
Keir Starmer has formally resigned as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Following his farewell speech, Sir Keir made his way to Buckingham Palace and met with King Charles, to formally tender his resignation.
A statement from the Palace said: "The Rt. Hon. Sir Keir Starmer MP had an audience of The King this morning and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury which His Majesty was graciously pleased to accept.
Keir Starmer arrives at Buckingham Palace to meet King Charles
Keir Starmer has arrived at Buckingham Palace to meet King Charles and stand down as Prime Minister.
The outgoing PM delivered his farewell speech outside Downing Street after just two years in office before making the short drive across to the Palace.
He is set to meet the Monarch very shortly who will accept his resignation.
Keir Starmer hugs Rachel Reeves following farewell speech
Keir Starmer hugged his Chancellor Rachel Reeves after finishing his farewell speech outside No10 Downing Street.
The outgoing PM was seen kissing his wife Victoria, before then embracing his close allies, amongst them Ms Reeves.
The Chancellor is expected to lose her job when Andy Burnham announces his Cabinet later today.
Keir Starmer wishes Andy Burnham 'every success'
Keir Starmer has said he wishes Andy Burnham “every success” ahead of handing over to the incoming Prime Minister.
During his farewell speech, the outgoing PM offered his successor his "full support".
He said: "I wish him every success, he has my full support."
Sir Keir added: "Politics will always be a team sport. And I thank the British people for the opportunity to serve."
Keir Starmer reveals biggest takeaway from time as PM
Keir Starmer has revealed what his biggest takeaway from his time as Prime Minister is.
Sir Keir said: “Our economy is stronger, our public services are on the up, with the biggest fall in waiting times for 17 years. Children are being lifted out of poverty every single day.
“Immigration is down significantly, our defence and security are on a far stronger footing and our international reputation is greatly enhanced."
He then revealed: "The thing I will always take away with me, the most humbling aspect of this job, is the front row seat you get to witness the greatest things of this country in action, to see every day immeasurable acts of resolve, grit, decency and compassion from people who serve our country, whether that’s in their regimental colours, NHS scrubs or simply the millions of people in their communities who volunteer their time and their effort to the ground beneath their feet.”
'My work is done!' Keir Starmer declares
Sir Keir Starmer has declared "my work is done" as he delivers his final speech as Prime Minister.
He added that he would "close the book" on his time as PM and that he is proud of the work he did.
Ministers and Downing Street staff gather outside No10
Members of Sir Keir Starmer's Cabinet and hit backroom team have started to gather outside No10 ready for the outgoing Prime Minister's final speech.
Rachel Reeves, David Lammy and Attorney General Lord Hermer are among those front and centre.
Prisons Minister Lord Timpson resigns ahead of Andy Burnham becoming PM
Prisons Minister Lord Timpson has resigned from government, just hours before Andy Burnham becomes Prime Minister.
Lord James Timpson left his role as CEO of the Timpson group in July 2024 to take up the role as Minister of State for Prisons, Parole and Probation.
He oversaw the controversial early release scheme which saw tens of thousand of inmates let out to create more space - prisons in England and Wales were almost at full capacity.
According to the BBC, in a departing statement, he said: "It has been an honour to serve as Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending and to leave with our prisons and probation service in a much healthier and happier state than two years ago."
National Lottery among companies to be nationalised in Andy Burnham's push for big state
The National Lottery is reported to be among the companies set to be nationalised by Andy Burnham, in his push for a big state.
It is understood that the Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, is pushing for the National Lottery to be among the companies nationalised, amid concerns about the current operator’s performance.
Other companies include Thames Water, with the soon-to-be PM being urged by members of his party to nationalise the water giant following supply problems.
Ministry of Justice has paid £176k to influencers since Labour came to power
The Ministry of Justice, ran by David Lammy, has paid £176,000 to social media influencers since Labour came to power.
Since July 2024, online content creators have been paid hundreds of thousands of pounds of taxpayers' money to promote Labour's policies.
Justice minister Jake Richards confirmed £176,140 had been spent on "influencer activity" to "work with content creators who can help us achieve our communications objectives", The Daily Mail reports.
The Conservatives meanwhile have accused Mr Lammy of "paying for good publicity".
Scotland Yard looking into claims Labour banned fox hunting in return for £1m donation
The Met Police is looking into allegations that Labour introduced the ban on fox hunting following a £1million donation.
Scotland Yard is assessing the claims that the ban - which was introduced in 2004 - was done in return for a monetary gift by the International for Animal Welfare (IFAW).
Former Labour fundraiser Brian Basham said he had "known for many years" that the act was "bought and paid for by a political donation".
Pro-hunting campaigners have filed a formal complaint requesting an investigation into Lord Mandelson and Mr Basham, as well as the Labour Party for alleged misconduct in public office.
Fears Andy Burnham 'will take Britain back to 1970s with state control' ahead of No10 takeover
Fears have been raised that Andy Burnham will plunge Britain back into the 1970s after he unveiled his plans for more nationalisation.
With Mr Burnham weighing up taking Thames Water and possibly bus services into the arms of the state, Reform UK's Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick said the new Prime Minister would "hammer businesses and take the country back to the 1970s with state control".
Mr Jenrick has previously warned that the Makerfield MP "plans to raise taxes on your family by £3,450".
"He’s advocated £38billion of new taxes. No one voted for this. He needs to rule them out... If he won’t, Reform will fight him," he said.
Kemi Badenoch issues stern warning to Andy Burnham as he prepares to become PM
Kemi Badenoch has issued a stern warning to Andy Burnham ahead of his first major speech as Prime Minister later today.
The Conservative leader penned a letter to No10's newest tenant, vowing to never "shirk" her responsibility as Leader of the Opposition to hold the Prime Minister to account.
Mrs Badenoch also piled pressure onto Mr Burnham to rule out tax rises on hard-working Britons and ditch Labour's "disastrous" ban on drilling in the North Sea.
Failing to do so would threaten Britons with a "damaging summer of speculation, affecting business investment, home owners and family finances", the North West Essex MP said...
The announcements Andy Burnham has already made before he takes reins at No10
Digital ID Cards: Andy Burnham would scrap the digital ID card scheme and redirect the funding towards tackling the cost of living. He says the money should be spent on more immediate public priorities.
North Sea Oil and Gas: The new Prime Minister backs drilling at the Jackdaw and Rosebank oil fields - though only if existing licences are upheld. He says this would help protect jobs and improve energy security.
Thames Water: Mr Burnham is expected to place Thames Water into special administration if it cannot secure its finances. He also wants greater public control of essential utilities.
£2 Bus Fare Cap: The Makerfield MP is considering restoring the £2 cap on single bus fares. He also wants to make public transport more affordable for young people.
National Care Service: Mr Burnham wants to create a National Care Service with social care free at the point of use. He also plans to speed up reforms to the social care system.
"No10 North": The ex-Manchester Mayor plans to move part of the Prime Minister's Office to the city he once ruled. He says this will support greater devolution and regional decision-making.
Housebuilding: Mr Burnham has promised the biggest council house-building programme since the Second World War. He wants to use vacant public land to help deliver more affordable homes.
Wealth Tax and Business Rates: Mr Burnham has not ruled out introducing a wealth tax in the future. He also plans to cut business rates for smaller businesses while increasing taxes on large online retailers and empty high street properties.
RECAP: Andy Burnham to address the nation for first time as Prime Minister with promise of 'political stability'
Andy Burnham will pledge that his new Government "must deliver tangible improvements in people's lives".
The new Prime Minister will say in his first speech as Prime Minister outside 10 Downing Street that Britain "faces a moment not for triumphalism but for honesty and reflection" today.
He will set out his priorities for restoring confidence in Government and giving Britain more breathing room.
Mr Burnham will say that he is "acutely conscious" of being the sixth person to walk up Downing Street as a new Prime Minister in just 10 years...
