The most famous door in British politics has been given a clean up in preparation for Andy Burnham to enter through it. Burnham takes over from Keir Starmer today, and will vow to rebuild trust in government and provide citizens with “breathing room” when he assumes the role.
The incoming Labour leader will outline his domestic agenda in his maiden address from Downing Street following his visit to the Palace to “kiss hands” with the King and officially succeed Keir Starmer. He is anticipated (which is journalist speak for “we’ve already seen most of the speech) to frame the occasion as a moment of “reflection and resolution”, contending that Britain must confront its challenges honestly and prove it can overcome them.
He will also acknowledge being “acutely conscious” that the UK has witnessed seven prime ministers in the past decade, emphasising the urgent need for greater political stability and accountability . . . and he’ll do it in front of a very clean door.