Burnham’s funding gap: what state are UK finances in for the PM-in-waiting?

<p>Given pressures on the public purse, the Makerfield MP may have to look at autumn tax rises to fund his ‘new direction’</p><p>An economy rattled by a global energy shock, jittery bond markets and rising spending demands. As Andy Burnham prepares for government, the pressures on the public finances are in focus.</p><p>The prospective prime minister <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jun/29/what-is-andy-burnhams-economic-and-political-blueprint-for-britain">pledged a new direction for Britain this week</a> within two constraints: sticking to Labour’s current fiscal rules, and consistency with its 2024 manifesto.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jul/03/burnham-funding-gap-uk-finances-pm-in-waiting">Continue reading...</a>