LONDON: Andy Burnham was officially announced as leader of the Labor Party on Friday, promising to bring hope to the British people and purpose to the embattled Labor government, clearing the final obstacle to his becoming prime minister on July 20.The former mayor of Greater Manchester is the only contender in the center-left party leadership race to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Friday’s announcement was a foregone conclusion after Burnham secured the nomination from 379 of the 403 Labor MPs in the House of Commons.“We will give them hope,” Burnham, 56, told lawmakers, party activists and union leaders in his first speech as leader. “This is a proud moment and an exciting moment that you guys have given me and my family today, but I’m ready for it.”He outlined a number of priorities in a speech on Friday, promising to deliver “the hope in everyone’s heart” and “good growth for every postcode” by transferring power from central government in London to local leaders in cities and regions. “We will take power back from Westminster and Whitehall and give it to where you live,” he told the audience. “Have more power over the essentials of life so you can make them work better.”Starmer will remain as prime minister until Monday, when he will formally tender his resignation to King Charles III. The king will then ask Burnham to form a government. Britain’s parliamentary democracy allows the ruling party to change its leader, and thus the prime minister, without calling a general election. The next national election does not have to be held in 2029. Associated Press
