Andy Burnham, regarded as more left-leaning than Keir Starmer, is reported to be in line to become the UK's next prime minister, a prospect that earlier unsettled bond markets, while US President Donald Trump has branded Britain a 'Poverty Stricken Disaster', according to CNBC.
Key facts
- Andy Burnham is reported to be in line to become the UK's next prime minister, according to CNBC.
- Burnham is considered more left-leaning than incumbent Keir Starmer.
- The prospect of the leadership change sent jitters through bond markets earlier this year, CNBC reported.
- US President Donald Trump described Britain as a 'Poverty Stricken Disaster', according to CNBC.
The United Kingdom is heading for a change in leadership, with Andy Burnham reported to be in line to become prime minister, according to CNBC. Burnham would replace the incumbent, Keir Starmer.
Burnham is considered more left-leaning than Starmer, CNBC reported. The prospect of the leadership change sent jitters through bond markets earlier this year, according to the outlet.
The development comes as US President Donald Trump publicly criticised Britain, describing the country as a ‘Poverty Stricken Disaster’, according to CNBC.
Full details of the timing and mechanism of the leadership change were not confirmed in the reporting available, and the situation remains developing.
Why it matters
A change of prime minister can shift the direction of UK economic and foreign policy, and markets have already shown sensitivity to the prospect. Pointed public criticism from the US president adds a further dimension to the transatlantic relationship at a moment of political transition in Britain.
Frequently asked questions
Who is set to become the UK's new prime minister?
According to CNBC, Andy Burnham is set to become the UK's new prime minister, replacing incumbent Keir Starmer.
How did markets react to the prospect of Burnham becoming prime minister?
CNBC reported that the prospect of Burnham replacing the incumbent prime minister sent jitters through bond markets earlier this year.
What did President Trump say about Britain?
According to CNBC, President Trump described Britain as a 'Poverty Stricken Disaster'.