Burnham begins: what awaits the new PM? - podcast

The Guardian Politics Tuesday 21 July 2026, 02:00 UTC By Presented by Helen Pidd with Peter Walker and Paul Harrison; produced by Ruth Abrahams, Guy Szafman, Belinda Gurung and Rudi Zygadlo; executive producer Sami Kent 1 min read

Key Points

Senior political correspondent Peter Walker and former No 10 press secretary Paul Harrison analyse Andy Burnham’s first day as PMOn Monday, Andy Burnham finally realised his long-held ambition to become prime minister. But what problems can he expect to confront now he’s in No 10?Former Downing Street press secretary Paul Harrison talks through the challenges of the office, from the awkward living arrangements to the even more awkward conversations with the president of the US.

Senior political correspondent Peter Walker and former No 10 press secretary Paul Harrison analyse Andy Burnham’s first day as PM

On Monday, Andy Burnham finally realised his long-held ambition to become prime minister. But what problems can he expect to confront now he’s in No 10?

Former Downing Street press secretary Paul Harrison talks through the challenges of the office, from the awkward living arrangements to the even more awkward conversations with the president of the US.

Burnham (PERSON) Peter Walker (PERSON) Paul Harrison (PERSON) Andy Burnham (PERSON) Downing Street (LOCATION) US (LOCATION)

Originally published by The Guardian Politics Read original →

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