Andy Burnham, leader of the ruling Labour Party, was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on July 20.
According to reports from Reuters and the Associated Press, Burnham received a request to form a government from King Charles III at Buckingham Palace and delivered his first address to the public outside 10 Downing Street in London. He is the seventh Prime Minister of the UK since 2016.
"This is a time for reflection and renewed resolve," Burnham said, emphasizing the need to demonstrate to the world that the UK can regain stability. He acknowledged that the public is weary of politics, stating, "We have not done well enough, and we must do better moving forward."
Burnham asserted that his government must bring about the most significant change in the UK in 40 years, announcing plans to unveil a long-term national strategy outlining the direction for the next decade by the end of the year.
In terms of economic and social policy, he prioritized decentralization and reindustrialization, aiming to transfer powers from the central government to local authorities. He plans to utilize public procurement to boost manufacturing and strengthen public control over essential services.
Burnham also promised measures to alleviate the burden of living costs, stating, "We will expand public housing supply, increase support for education and mental health, and address homelessness issues." He emphasized a cautious approach to fiscal policy while adhering to existing financial rules and commitments to increase defense spending.
Shortly after taking office, Burnham spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump, discussing the situation in the Middle East and shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. He conveyed that ensuring the security of the UK and its allies would be a top priority and pledged to work towards securing smooth shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to stabilize global supply chains and prices.
Burnham also had a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who confirmed via social media platform X that UK support for Ukraine would continue. They agreed to discuss future cooperation, including ballistic missile defense collaboration.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.