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Thu, 25 Jun 2026

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 Reeves backs Burnham to become next prime minister

The chancellor throws her support behind the MP for Makerfield despite reports he could demote her if he becomes PM.
Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, has expressed her support for Andy Burnham to become the next Prime Minister of the UK. Despite reports that Burnham could demote Reeves to a junior cabinet position if he becomes PM, she stated that she stands ready to provide targeted relief on energy bills in the autumn. When asked about the possibility of being demoted, Reeves emphasized that it is up to Burnham whether she stays on as Chancellor. She reiterated her support for Burnham, saying "I'm backing Andy. I think he'd be a great Prime Minister." Reeves also highlighted the importance of sticking to fiscal rules, including reducing debt and ensuring day-to-day spending is funded through tax revenue. Burnham has committed to keeping these rules in place. The Chancellor acknowledged that there were things she could have done better in her time as Chancellor but expressed pride in her record, which includes increasing the national living wage and national minimum wage, and seeing the economy grow and inflation flatten out. Burnham is seen as a frontrunner to replace Sir Keir Starmer as Labour Party leader, with a possible date of 17 July for him to become Prime Minister.