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Prime Minister Andy Burnham has acknowledged that the measures he has announced to alleviate the cost of living crisis are not sufficient on their own, suggesting that additional support may be forthcoming. Speaking on BBC’s Wake Up to Money, Burnham explained that his strategy involves delivering a series of smaller initiatives which, when combined, will help ease the financial strain on households. Among the ideas he mentioned were reforms to train fares and increasing public control over essential services like energy, water, and housing, although he did not provide specifics on how these changes would be implemented.
Since assuming office, Burnham has introduced various steps aimed at helping people cope with living costs. These include eliminating VAT on domestic electricity bills and accelerating the planned end to so-called “subscription traps.” When questioned about whether these measures were inadequate for those facing significant financial difficulty, Burnham responded, “I can accept criticism that this isn’t enough, because I wouldn’t say it’s enough. But I take an approach to politics where I do what I can, when I can. Just take that little bit of pressure off and address an issue that you know needs addressing. It’s not the end of the story.”
Burnham, currently undertaking a UK-wide tour while Parliament is on recess, reiterated his belief that increased public control over vital services—specifically water, energy, and housing—could provide a more lasting solution to the cost of living crisis. Recognizing the complexity of reversing the privatisation of water companies from the 1980s, he stated, “But very much, I’m looking at what can be done. Same with energy.” Additionally, with rail operators now returning to public ownership, Burnham expressed his intention to revamp rail fares to ensure greater public benefits.
In related news, the government recently announced that residents living within 500 meters of newly upgraded electricity pylons and substations across Britain will receive an annual £250 discount on their electricity bills for ten years. Burnham also mentioned that he has asked Chancellor John Healey to explore further measures for the upcoming Budget on 28 October, with Healey confirming that the cost of living will be the main focus. While Healey has committed to “strong fiscal discipline,” suggesting limits on government spending, experts warn that raising taxes or cutting spending may be necessary to meet Burnham’s commitments on defence and living costs. Burnham has pledged to uphold Labour’s manifesto promise not to increase taxes for working people, including income tax, VAT, and National Insurance Contributions.
Burnham also faces mounting pressure to address rising costs for businesses following past increases in employer national insurance and minimum wages under previous budgets. Last month, he announced a 20% reduction in business rates for pubs, social clubs, and live music venues beginning in April, calling it a “first step” toward helping the sector. He acknowledged that the national insurance hike has added pressure on businesses and stated that the government will review business rates “more broadly.” Burnham concluded by expressing his desire “to bring down the cost of doing business” and to revitalize high streets across the country, but he refrained from making any firm commitments prior to the upcoming Budget. “Those are for the Budget,” he said
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