UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has congratulated new Prime Minister Andy Burnham while questioning whether he possesses the qualities needed to govern effectively, describing him as “a nice man” but not the decisive leader Britain requires.
In a statement on X following Burnham’s assumption of office, Badenoch wished him success but vowed to hold his government accountable.
“Today, Britain has a new Prime Minister. I wish Andy Burnham every success,” she said. “My job as Leader of the Opposition is to hold the Prime Minister to account, not to be his cheer leader.”
Badenoch criticised Burnham for taking office without a clear plan. “Andy Burnham is becoming Prime Minister without having set out a clear plan for government,” she stated, noting he had avoided parliamentary scrutiny and proper media interviews.
She welcomed reports of potential approvals for North Sea gas fields but urged bolder action. “He must not stop there. He should end Ed Miliband’s destructive ban on new licences altogether,” Badenoch added.
The Conservative leader contrasted her party’s direction with Labour’s approach. “The choice at the next election is becoming clearer. Andy Burnham’s Labour offering state control and forced redistribution or my new Conservative Party — offering enterprise, responsibility and growth,” she said.
