Andy Burnham’s government has been likened to the reality TV show The Traitors as the new Prime Minister races to announce a series of policies in his first week in office. The comparison, made by Sky’s Electoral Dysfunction podcast, reflects a flurry of promises that has left the Today programme scrambling to rethink its agenda – a sharp contrast to the early days of his predecessor.
In an analysis titled “At last, a government that looks like it’s trying”, the New Statesman noted the visible determination to have Something To Announce. Within days, Burnham has pledged a VAT cut from electricity bills, capped bus fares, and increased tax relief for pubs and music venues. While none of these are huge measures individually, together they paint a picture of a government actively engaged in trying to make life better, the magazine argued. Vox pops suggest the public is grateful for the effort.
“Burnham’s first week brings VAT cut, bus cap, and rough-sleeping pledge, with some comparing it to reality TV.”
The most significant promise came before Burnham even entered Downing Street: to end rough sleeping. The return of this visible crisis, largely eradicated by the last Labour government, is described as a stain on the nation’s conscience and a symptom of national decline. If achieved, the New Statesman says, it will make streets feel safer and show that government can still make things better.
Interpretations of Burnhamism vary. The right sees an old-style tax-and-spend leftie; others call it Starmerism with better comms. The retention of Shabana Mahmood at the Home Office and Bridget Phillipson in the equalities brief suggests continuity on social issues – treating immigrants like human beings and protecting trans rights. But on devolution and social care reform, Burnham’s enthusiasm signals a more significant departure. After two years of a Labour PM who seemed to think everything was fine, the new leader’s ambition brings a tear to the eye, the New Statesman said.
The question remains whether this flurry of announcements represents substance or performance – and whether the public will continue to see a government that looks like it’s trying.