‘Andy Burnham should flip his hope into insurance policies that really change lives’
Andy Burnham, the new Labour leader, will set out his domestic priorities in his first speech from Downing Street on Monday after formally taking over from Sir Keir Starmer
Voice of the Mirror has its say…
Andy Burnham enters Downing Street on Monday promising a bolder, more ambitious government.
Millions will welcome the change in tone. Britain needs urgency, honesty and a Prime Minister willing to confront failures that have been allowed to continue for too long.
His reported readiness to tackle the broken water industry would be a strong place to start. Privatisation has delivered sewage, debt and huge rewards for bosses while customers pay the price.
The plan for a Number 10 North also deserves a fair hearing. Power has been hoarded in Westminster for decades, leaving towns and cities feeling ignored. Governing from beyond London could help change that, provided it brings real decisions, jobs and investment rather than another sign on a door.
Mr Burnham will speak of hope on Monday. The country has heard plenty of speeches before. His task is to turn that hope into lower bills, better public services and a fairer deal for working families.
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For £180 a year, the BBC still gives Britain something no streaming giant can match. It informs, educates and entertains across television, radio and online, while supporting thousands of jobs and adding billions to the economy.
Romesh Ranganathan’s playful remake of the classic John Cleese film is a timely reminder of that value as ministers debate the Corporation’s future. The BBC is not perfect. It must keep earning trust, spend money wisely and serve audiences who now have more choice than ever.
But losing it would leave Britain poorer, less informed and less connected. From trusted news and children’s learning to sport, drama, music and moments that bring the nation together, the BBC remains part of the country’s fabric. That is surely worth protecting.
