UK’s Andy Burnham named Labour leader ahead of taking over as PM

Andy Burnham, nicknamed the "King of the North", became leader of Britain's governing Labour Party on Friday, the final step before taking over as prime minister. At a special conference, Burnham was elected after gaining overwhelming support from Labour lawmakers. The event is a formality before he replaces Keir Starmer as PM on Monday.

Burnham, who previously served as mayor of Greater Manchester, has outlined some of his domestic agenda. He wants to oversee what he calls the "biggest rebalancing of power" from London to the regions, aiming to reduce inequality and the anger felt by 'left-behind communities' that have turned to the Reform party.

Labour lawmakers were won over by his message of thwarting the rise of Reform, led by Nigel Farage. Reform has topped opinion polls for months, but Farage's acceptance of funds from wealthy donors has tarnished his image, potentially giving Burnham an opening to revive Labour's fortunes.

With a general election due by 2029, Burnham has limited time to implement his long-term pledges. He will need to act quickly to start fulfilling his promises.