Burnham sets out 'new path' for Britain, vows to seek consensus on ties with EU

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham pledged Tuesday to give Britain "a new social contract for the 21st century", reform the country's electoral system and build consensus on a new relationship with the European Union as he set out a long-term vision to tackle the UK's woes in his first speech as leader at the annual Labour party conference.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham sets out his policy vision proposals at the Labour Party's annual conference in Liverpool, on September 29, 2026. © Temilade Adelaja, Reuters

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham promised greater public control over essential services Tuesday as he vowed to reverse decades of privatisation and rebuild Britain during an emotional first speech as leader to his Labour party's annual gathering.

The 56-year-old former mayor of Manchester – in office for just 10 weeks – choked back tears as he spoke about his late father and detailed his long-term ambitions to establish free social care, reform the UK's electoral system and controversially adjust pensions.

"I accept people will not agree with every part of it, but I believe it can turn Britain around," Burnham told a packed audience in Liverpool , who punctuated his hour-long address with numerous standing ovations.

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