As the Labour Party hurtles towards another seismic shift, Andy Burnham, its newly elected Member of Parliament for Makerfield, is poised to become Prime Minister in what could be a matter of weeks. The rapid ascent has been swift – even before his formal swearing-in as an MP – leaving his transition team racing against time to formulate a comprehensive agenda for his first 100 days in office.
Behind the scenes, Burnham's team is shaping a policy package that prioritises tangible changes over prolonged strategic development. Sources close to him reveal that his three-strong female-led transition team, comprising Anneliese Midgley, Louise Haigh, and Sally Jameson, are drafting an ambitious early programme designed to galvanise public confidence and set the tone for his premiership.
At its core, Burnham's first 100 days will centre on a significant expansion of devolution. Building upon existing reforms, he aims to introduce more mayoralties nationwide and consider enshrining a 'basic law' in legislation – a concept mooted in his book Head North. This proposed legislation would require the government to improve living standards across the country, particularly in areas deemed neglected by Westminster. The policy is a direct response to his electoral promise of empowering Northern regions and other areas historically overlooked.
Ahead of devolution, Burnham is also expected to champion greater public ownership of essential utilities, an ambition he has long held dear. The scope of this initiative will depend on the selection of his Chancellor but remains a central plank in his policy framework. Other key early priorities include bolstering workforce opportunities for young people and addressing the contentious issue of housing asylum seekers in HMOs, both commitments made during his by-election campaign.
The speed of Burnham's transition has caught many off guard – including some within his own camp who initially envisioned a later leadership bid. However, the resounding by-election victory and swift departure of Keir Starmer have accelerated the timeline significantly. As such, there is an unspoken understanding that the party will expect not only a seamless leadership handover but also immediate action upon entering office.
Success in the next general election hangs precariously on early achievements, which underscores the gravity and urgency with which Burnham's team is approaching his first 100 days. The stakes are high, but one thing is certain – the nation will be watching closely as Andy Burnham embarks upon this pivotal chapter in British politics.