Andy Burnham is set to assume the role of Prime Minister today and will have an audience with King Charles before delivering his inaugural speech at Downing Street. Widely known as the “King of the North,” Burnham will shape the direction of his administration, acknowledging a nation fatigued by frequent appearances at the No10 podium. His speech will provide him, at 56 years old, the opportunity to pledge to provide the UK with “more breathing space” concerning the cost of living.

Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, emphasized that Burnham will present a more audacious and forward-thinking vision to address Britain’s pressing issues. Supporters of Burnham indicated that he will argue for tangible progress alongside the promised relief on living expenses.

Following Keir Starmer’s resignation last month, where he tearfully acknowledged that Labour MPs believed he was not the best choice to lead the party into the next general election, the stage is set for Burnham to take the helm.

Advocates are urging Burnham to empower councils with greater authority to acquire or lease vacant properties to combat the homelessness crisis. Lord John Bird, founder of the Big Issue, proposed a government-backed loan program to facilitate the creation of social housing and alleviate homelessness, urging Burnham to prioritize this initiative from day one of his premiership.

Today, Burnham and Starmer will have a packed schedule, with Starmer expected to make a statement at Downing Street before heading to Buckingham Palace to conclude his term. Burnham will follow shortly after, delivering a speech to eager journalists awaiting his cabinet selections later in the day.

Burnham revealed that his father, who suffers from Alzheimer’s and resides in a care home, is unaware of his son’s impending Prime Minister status. Burnham expressed regret that his father, Kenneth Roy Burnham, a former telephone engineer, would not know of his achievement.

In his address to the nation as Prime Minister, Burnham will promise to provide relief on the cost of living, unveiling a series of policies in his first week in office to support households under financial strain. Acknowledging the political turbulence, Burnham will step into the role amidst uncertainties, succeeding Starmer just two years after Labour’s victory.

The focus remains on Burnham as he steps into his new role, with journalists already on standby since the early hours, awaiting his formal entrance into Number 10.