Burnham holds secret hour-long meeting with Starmer – what we know

WorldPolitics
23 Jun 2026 • 11:45 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Burnham holds secret hour-long meeting with Starmer – what we know

  • Sir Keir Starmer and Andy Burnham met for the first time since Mr Burnham's by-election victory in Makerfield, marking their first discussion since before the contest.
  • The outgoing prime minister has agreed that prospective leadership candidates, including Mr Burnham, will receive government briefings to facilitate their preparation for power.
  • Starmer informed his Cabinet of his commitment to an 'orderly transition' for his replacement, aiming to make the process as smooth as possible.
  • Despite his resignation, Sir Keir is scheduled to publish a defence plan, which David Lammy indicated would deliver an unprecedented increase in defence spending.
  • The proposed defence plan has prompted the resignations of defence secretary John Healey and former armed forces minister Al Carns, with Mr Healey criticising the Treasury's resource allocation.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved