Energy bills, defence and social care: What are Burnham's potential policies?
Summary
Andy Burnham is seen as a likely candidate for the next prime minister after Keir Starmer stepped down. Burnham supports keeping economic rules to avoid big borrowing, opposes raising major taxes, and plans to bring more public control to water, energy, and transport services. He also wants a new national care levy to fund social care and faces challenges on defence spending.Key Facts
- Andy Burnham recently won a by-election and became MP for Makerfield.
- He supports Chancellor Rachel Reeves' economic rules to limit borrowing.
- Burnham pledges not to increase income tax, VAT, or National Insurance rates.
- He wants stronger public control or ownership of water, energy, and transport, inspired by the Greater Manchester model.
- Nationalising water could cost around £100 billion, but gradual public ownership of rail could lower costs.
- Burnham proposes replacing inheritance tax with a national care levy to fund free social care.
- Social care reform costs could range from £7 billion to £17 billion by 2035/36, depending on the model used.
- Defence spending plans are uncertain, with recent resignations over disagreements about budget targets.
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