‘Andy Burnham tackling value of residing is the best way to cease UK doom-scrolling by way of PMs’

Theresa May pledged to tackle the nation’s “burning injustices”.

Boris Johnson promised to level up the country.

Liz Truss told a weary public they could “ride out the storm”.

Rishi Sunak vowed to fix the mistakes of Liz Truss.

Keir Starmer set out his mission of “national renewal”.

All were visions – with varying degrees of success – set out in their first address to the country as Prime Minister in front of Downing Street’s famous black door.

In less than 24 hours, it will be the turn of Andy Burnham – the so-called King of the North, who sensationally returned to Parliament last month.

After being invited to form a government by the King, the new Labour leader will deliver one of the most important speeches of his political career.

It will be his chance to introduce himself to the country as Prime Minister and set the tone of his government for years to come. The stakes couldn’t be higher.

With the world’s media gathered on make-shift platforms – erected by scaffolders in recent days – Burnham will acknowledge a nation weary at the frequent sight of the No10 podium.

He will insist he is “acutely conscious” of the doom-scrolling of Prime Ministers as the sixth to walk up the street in the space of a decade.

But crucially, it will be his promise to give Britain “more breathing space” on the cost of living that will prick up ears in homes across the country. The burden on cash-strapped families is at the top of voters’ concerns — and it has been the case for some time.

Polling by YouGov earlier this year found that no political party has a firm lead on who is best to handle the issue at the forefront of the public’s mind.

And in March just 10% said Starmer’s government was handling the issue well.

If Burnham’s team want to end merry-go-round of Prime Ministers, tackling the pain of the cost of living crisis head on is the right place to start.

It would be understandable if hard-pressed households – forced to endure years of hikes in energy, water, food, and council tax bills – are jaded by politicians’ promises.

It is why Burnham’s delivery in the coming days, months, and years is critical.

Monday’s speech will be a major moment in the country’s history, but easing the pain on households will be key if this new government is to succeed.