Andy Burnham, USA News: Prime Minister and Makerfield MP Andy Burnham has been accused by local residents of lying and abandoning his constituency after securing the seat in June, according to reports from GB News. Winning the Makerfield by-election with 54.9 percent of the vote—defeating Reform candidate Robert Kenyon by over nine thousand votes—Mr Burnham promised voters in the Leave-voting constituency that he would not reopen the Brexit debate. However, after becoming Prime Minister, he confirmed he would consider applying for Britain to join the Brussels bloc, triggering substantial backlash from voters and opposition parties.
Many local residents have raised concerns that Mr Burnham used the Makerfield seat merely as a stepping stone to vie for the leadership previously held by Sir Keir Starmer. Speaking to GB News on the day of the Budget, one local man stated that the Prime Minister is trying to take the country back into Europe against constituents’ wishes, adding that he no longer believes a word he says. Another resident expressed concern over the broader implications for the area, suggesting that Mr Burnham misled voters to get elected and subsequently neglected local interests, sparking significant debate within community pubs.
Conversely, some residents defended the Prime Minister. Peter Cain, a local butcher shop owner, sympathized with Mr Burnham following the recent loss of his father, praising his professionalism and level of commitment without taking time off. Regarding the Budget, Mr Cain expressed support for cheaper energy, the removal of VAT for businesses, and putting more money back into the pockets of the public amid cost-of-living pressures. Other members of the public offered mixed reviews, with one young man expressing confidence in Mr Burnham despite opposing the previous Labour leadership, and another lifelong supporter confirming she would vote for him again.
Nationally, the Prime Minister faced Prime Minister’s Questions prior to the Budget, telling Parliament that the Chancellor would deliver a plan to generate economic growth while facing heavy jeering in the chamber. Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch challenged Mr Burnham over his remarks concerning a potential EU referendum, arguing that he spoke without engaging his brain during a crucial week for the Chancellor.
