Andy Burnham Set to Become UK Prime Minister After Securing Labour MPs' Backing

London: Andy Burnham is set to become the United Kingdom's next prime minister after securing the backing of 349 Labour MPs, making it impossible for any rival to obtain the 81 nominations required to enter the party's leadership contest.

The newly elected MP for Makerfield increased his support from 322 to 349 nominations on Monday. With only 54 Labour MPs yet to endorse a candidate—including outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Labour NEC chair Shabana Mahmood, who cannot nominate by convention—Burnham is now expected to be elected unopposed.

He is scheduled to replace Starmer as Labour leader on Friday and become prime minister next Monday.

Addressing Labour MPs during an online hustings, Burnham pledged to form a "broad church" Cabinet representing all wings of the party, with appointments based on "contribution, experience and commitment."

He also promised a more collaborative style of leadership, saying he wanted to build a government where MPs feel "valued, seen and listened to" and remain closely connected to local communities.

Burnham said his government would prioritise economic growth across every region, devolve more powers to local communities and focus on tackling the cost-of-living crisis.

He paid tribute to former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe, offered condolences to her family, and called for police to be given the resources needed to investigate her death. He also praised Starmer for delivering the Hillsborough Law, saying the outgoing prime minister had fulfilled his promise to the families of the 1989 disaster.

Meanwhile, The Guardian reported that Starmer's formal resignation at Buckingham Palace has been rescheduled to later on Monday to accommodate a possible trip to the FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey should England qualify by defeating Argentina in Wednesday's semi-final.

Among those backing Burnham on Monday were Communities Secretary Steve Reed, junior ministers Chris Bryant and Mike Tapp, former minister Jess Phillips and Labour MP Richard Burgon.