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What does Burnham’s appointment of ex-Blair minister mean?

Politico EU Wednesday 24 June 2026, 07:08 UTC By Anne McElvoy, Sam Coates 62 min read
Key Points

Listen on Spotify Apple Music Amazon Music Sky News Andy Burnham appears to have taken another major step towards power, bringing in a big name from the Tony Blair era – James Purnell – as his chief of staff. What does it say about the Burnham operation and the government he is trying to build? Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy unpack a decades-long relationship, and discuss why it’s being welcomed by Labour MPs, business and the City.

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Andy Burnham appears to have taken another major step towards power, bringing in a big name from the Tony Blair era – James Purnell – as his chief of staff.

What does it say about the Burnham operation and the government he is trying to build?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy unpack a decades-long relationship, and discuss why it’s being welcomed by Labour MPs, business and the City.

Starmer ally Darren Jones has ruled himself out of a leadership challenge. Is the path now clear for a Burnham coronation?

Plus, Anne has been speaking to Reform UK’s Robert Jenrick. How do they deal with a new Labour leader, and do they have a clear narrative on migration?

Burnham (PERSON) ex-Blair (ORG) Spotify Apple Music (ORG) Andy Burnham (PERSON) the Tony Blair (PERSON) James Purnell &#8211 (ORG) Sam Coates (PERSON) Anne McElvoy (PERSON) Labour MPs (ORG) Starmer (PERSON) Darren Jones (PERSON) Anne (PERSON) Robert Jenrick (PERSON) Labour (ORG)
Originally published by Politico EU Read original →

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