Andy Burnham, new British prime minister, brings "Manchester model" to London. Can his look become a political weapon?

Andy Burnham officially assumes the role of the United Kingdom's 59th prime minister today, taking over from Keir Starmer. The transition ceremony will see Starmer deliver his final address from Downing Street before formally resigning to King Charles III. Burnham will then be received by the monarch to form the new government.

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stable and responsible

Upon entering office, Burnham is expected to outline his priorities, emphasizing a "stable and responsible" policy agenda and immediate measures to alleviate the cost of living crisis. However, his first hours will be dominated by critical national security matters. Former cabinet secretary Lord Gus O'Donnell explained that Burnham will receive immediate security briefings on pressing threats and classified files. He will also be briefed on nuclear crisis protocols and must issue instructions to commanders of British nuclear submarines.

Burnham's ascent marks a significant shift, bringing the "Manchester model", a strategy centered on decentralization, reindustrialization, and public-private partnerships, from his tenure as mayor of Greater Manchester to national policy. Sir Paul Collier, an economics professor at Oxford University, suggests this model is broadly applicable across England, except perhaps in the southeast.

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a breath of fresh air

Despite the potential, analysts caution that scaling this model nationally presents challenges. Professor Jonathan Portes of King's College London notes that state-led private investment might not suffice to mend a fragile economy. Burnham's success could, however, curb the rise of right-wing populism.

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With the further you move away from Whitehall, the more applicable this model becomes. It is valid almost everywhere in England, except for the southeast region.

Beyond policy, Burnham's arrival signals a change in the image of authority. He replaces the more traditional, suit-clad Keir Starmer with a 56-year-old leader known for his casual attire, including t-shirts, and direct communication via social media selfies. While this approach has drawn criticism, notably from Conservative politician Kemi Badenoch, Burnham has effectively turned such attacks into campaign assets, with data from Public First indicating his popularity.

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a pair of genes and a black t-shirt