This week on Our Week, Untangled, Jordan and Kathryn review Andy Burnham's first full week as Prime Minister, analysing the policies, promises and political direction that have defined his opening days in office.
We begin with Burnham's first major pledge to end rough sleeping, discussing his commitment to tackling homelessness, how it builds on his record as Mayor of Greater Manchester, and whether his plans can be delivered nationwide.
We then break down a series of cost-of-living announcements, including the decision to remove VAT from household electricity bills, the introduction of a £2 nationwide bus fare cap, and plans to reduce business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues. We discuss who stands to benefit, how the measures will be funded, and whether they go far enough to ease pressure on households and high streets.
The conversation also turns to the government's decision to review the early release prisoner scheme, examining why ministers believe the policy needs reconsidering and what it could mean for prison capacity, sentencing and public confidence in the justice system.
Finally, we discuss Burnham's first meeting at No. 10 North in Manchester, why he has chosen to base key government meetings outside Westminster, and what this signals about his commitment to devolution and rebalancing power across the UK.
Our Week, Untangled: Two generations. One tangled week.
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