Burnham to set out cost-of-living measures as he tours UK
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is launching a nationwide tour to promote a new 10-year plan aimed at addressing cost-of-living challenges. The government faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its fiscal discipline and a controversial early prisoner release scheme.
Why it matters
The success of the Prime Minister's economic strategy and his ability to manage public perception will be critical to his administration's stability and future policy implementation.
Image source, Reuters By Nick Eardley Political correspondent Published 9 August 2026, 00:10 BST The prime minister is set to announce "a series of measures to make life easier" for those struggling with the cost of living in the coming days, Downing Street says.
No 10 says Andy Burnham's plans are to "give people some room to breathe". He will also focus on ways of "improving high streets" as he embarks on a tour of the UK.
But the government is facing continued pressure over its early release scheme for prisoners in England and Wales – with criticism of the fact that two of PC Andrew Harper's killers will be eligible from next year.
Burnham is also likely to face pressure for more action on the cost of living – although significant interventions are unlikely before October's Budget.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in