Andy Burnham became the United Kingdom’s new prime minister on Monday after King Charles III formally invited him to form a government following Keir Starmer’s resignation. Burnham pledged immediate action on the cost of living, promised long-term economic reforms and reaffirmed Britain’s support for Ukraine.

Buckingham Palace confirmed the appointment in a statement, saying Burnham had accepted the King’s invitation and officially took office after the traditional audience with the monarch.

Burnham becomes Britain’s sixth prime minister in the past 10 years. He inherits a government facing slowing economic growth, rising borrowing costs, pressure on public finances and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

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Addressing supporters outside 10 Downing Street, Burnham said his government would announce new measures this week to ease the cost-of-living crisis before unveiling a 10-year national development plan later this year.

“Britain needs to show the world that we can regain our stability once again,” Burnham said.

He acknowledged recent challenges and said the country must improve its economic performance while giving families “some breathing space.”

Burnham also outlined plans to reform education, expand mental health support for young people and increase the construction of council homes. He said those measures would help reduce welfare spending while maintaining Britain’s defence commitments.

Support for Ukraine to Continue

The new prime minister said US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would be among the first world leaders he contacted after taking office.

Burnham pledged that Britain’s backing for Ukraine would remain unchanged.

“President Zelensky will be left in no doubt whatsoever that Britain’s support is steadfast. It is resolute,” he said.

He added that he would continue supporting Ukraine personally, maintaining the policy followed by the previous government.

Starmer Leaves Office

Earlier on Monday, Keir Starmer formally submitted his resignation to King Charles before leaving Downing Street.

In his farewell speech, Starmer defended his government’s record and said Britain had become stronger and fairer during his two years in office.

“I go with good grace, I go with a smile, and I go proud of everything that we have achieved,” Starmer said.

His resignation followed weeks of political pressure after a series of controversies, policy reversals and declining public support.

Global Leaders Welcome Burnham

International leaders quickly congratulated Burnham following the palace’s announcement.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she looked forward to strengthening cooperation between the European Union and the United Kingdom, particularly on security and economic growth.

European Council President António Costa also welcomed the appointment and expressed hope that both sides would continue improving EU-UK relations.

Economic Challenges Await

Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, enters office at a difficult time for the British economy.

His government must address weak economic growth, rising public debt, higher welfare spending and growing support for the anti-immigration Reform UK party.

The renewed conflict between the United States and Iran has also increased energy prices, adding further pressure to household budgets and government finances.

Burnham said he would adopt a different approach to public spending by focusing on early investment and preventive policies instead of reacting to long-term economic problems.

His first major policy decision came before taking office when Labour announced it would cancel the previous government’s nationwide digital identity programme. The party said it would redirect the funding towards measures to reduce the cost of living.

Burnham now faces the challenge of delivering his agenda before the next general election, which is expected in 2029.