UK gets fifth prime minister in four years
On July 20, the UK welcomed a new prime minister, Andy Burnham, the fifth in four years, succeeding Keir Starmer.
The United Kingdom saw its fifth prime minister in just four years on July 20, as Labour leader Andy Burnham took office, replacing Keir Starmer. Starmer had spent 746 days at 10 Downing Street, following Rishi Sunak, Liz Truss (who lasted only 50 days), and Boris Johnson, who resigned in 2022.
Burnham is well aware of the turbulent political landscape. Post-pandemic and post-Brexit Britain faces public impatience, growing hardships, and widespread unpopularity among leaders. He plans to bring an energetic approach, maintaining the leadership style he used as mayor of Manchester. Burnham may skip the traditional first speech outside Downing Street and instead hold discussion sessions with voters across the country.
Before leaving, Starmer will deliver a formal address and meet with the King to formally resign. His team highlights achievements in immigration, reduced NHS waiting times, efforts to reduce child poverty, and a ban on social media for under-16s.
The new cabinet is expected to be announced on the evening of July 20. Most speculation surrounds the key posts, including the Home and Foreign Secretaries.
