Andy Burnham launches national political bid as festival debut introduces him to wider public

From the Newshound archive · first published 4 October 2026.

Andy Burnham has scrapped VAT on electricity bills, saving households around £45 this winter, and capped bus fares at £2 as part of his opening salvo on the cost of living. The new Prime Minister has promised further action on subscription traps, school uniform costs and business rates relief for pubs and music venues.

Burnham announced Great British Grid this week to speed up energy connections and cut bills, with funding for community-owned solar, wind and hydro schemes.

Those close to Burnham are reportedly still adjusting to his rise — 'It's Andy who does the buses and now he's got the nuclear codes.'