Andy Burnham takes charge as U.K.’s new Prime Minister
Andy Burnham has officially taken charge as the UK Prime Minister following Keir Starmer's resignation. Burnham, who was elected Labour leader unopposed, has pledged to implement stable and responsible governance as he begins forming his new Cabinet.
Why it matters
This transition marks a change in leadership for the UK government, with expectations for a shift in political tone following the previous administration's tenure.
A ndy Burnham, newly elected leader of the Labour Party, on Monday (July 20, 2026) took charge as the U.K.'s new Prime Minister.
King Charles III invited the 56-year-old former Mayor of Greater Manchester to form a new government following the resignation of Keir Starmer moments earlier to mark the formal handover of power.
"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," a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.
Mr. Burnham, elected Labour leader unopposed last week, is expected to get to work as PM immediately by announcing his picks for Cabinet. The country's fifth Prime Minister in four years has pledged to bring in "stable and responsible" politics.
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