Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to deliver a speech today, Tuesday 29 September 2026, where he will reportedly pledge an "honest conversation" with voters about "difficult issues" that have been overlooked. Ahead of the speech, questions persist regarding the reform of the triple lock, which ensures pensions rise by the highest of inflation, average earnings, or 2.5%.
The Daily Telegraph reports that Mr Burnham will address ending the triple lock in his speech, suggesting it be reviewed in the Labour party's next manifesto. A union source told the i Paper that the triple lock in its current form is "completely unsustainable" long-term, and scrapping it could fund social care plans.
The Daily Mail previews Mr Burnham's intention to outline plans for greater state control of water, energy, and housing, describing it as potentially "the most left-wing speech delivered by a modern British prime minister." The Mirror also states that Mr Burnham will promise to fix Britain's "broken" energy market and reduce bills, announcing the Great British Grid.
The Financial Times notes that this will be Mr Burnham's first speech to his party conference since becoming Labour leader in July. He is expected to indicate a readiness to "take on tough problems" and break with "politics as usual."