Andy Burnham becomes new UK Prime Minister

The United Kingdom has a new prime minister, its sixth in the last 10 years, after Andy Burnham met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace on Jul. 20.

He succeeds Keir Starmer, who leaves his post after two years in the role.

Addressing the media as prime minister for the first time, the 56-year-old Burnham characterised his appointment as a "circuit breaker" moment for Britain, reported The Guardian.

According to the BBC, Burnham also used his speech — delivered somewhat unorthodoxly without notes or a teleprompter — to stress the importance of regaining stability in the country.

He mentioned addressing the rising cost-of-living as among his government's top priorities, adding that he would announce measures on Jul. 21 to give those feeling the pressure "some breathing space now".

His first instruction, however, would be to end rough sleeping in the UK.

Congratulations from PM Wong

In a congratulatory letter, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong wished Burnham "every success" in leading the UK through "this period of profound geopolitical and economic change".

"I am confident that we will continue to strengthen cooperation across a wide range of areas, including in innovation, science and technology, and defence."

On Facebook, PM Wong noted the "close and enduring partnership" between Singapore and the UK, "built on decades of trust and cooperation".

"Man of the People"

Burnham's seemingly rapid rise to 10 Downing Street was preceded by his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester, which lasted from 2017 to 2026.

Before that, he had served in various Labour government cabinet positions between 2007 and 2010, and twice unsuccessfully challenged for the role of party leader.

He has now built a reputation as a folksy, relaxed, "man of the people" and will hope to stem the rising popularity of Nigel Farage's right-wing Reform Party.