Labour figures are confident that Andy Burnham can successfully advocate for a new social care system, a service that seven previous prime ministers have not delivered. A cabinet minister stated, "I’m not worried about it because we have time to make the case."
The proposed multibillion-pound public service is likely to be funded by tax rises or by holding back increases in the state pension. Estimates suggest the service could cost up to £18bn annually. Reform UK has suggested a "death tax" could be introduced, while economists have raised the possibility of scrapping the pension triple lock to help cover costs.
Burnham is anticipated to outline further details of his vision for social care during his conference speech on Tuesday. However, the specific funding mechanisms may not be fully detailed yet, as a review of the system by Louise Casey is still pending.