Andy Burnham became the British Prime Minister on 20 July 2026. The new leader was elected as the head of the Labour Party on 16 July 2026.
Burnham previously served as the Mayor of Greater Manchester starting in 2017. He returned to Parliament in June 2026 after winning the Makerfield by-election.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced immigration reforms in November 2025. Mahmood proposed extending the time required for some migrants to secure indefinite leave to remain from 5 years to 15 years.
The proposed system would replace the existing 5-year qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain. Under this plan, the time required for settlement could vary based on the contributions and circumstances of individual migrants.
Burnham stated, "The Home Secretary is right, in my view, to bring forward changes that are based on the principle that settlement is a right to be earned, not just something that is granted automatically." The Prime Minister added, "And she'll set out the final conclusion soon," and noted, "I would like to see that happen in my lifetime."
Burnham believes that Brexit has weakened the UK economy and reduced the country's control over immigration. He ruled out any move for the United Kingdom to rejoin the European Union.
