Defence is key issue for Andy Burnham according to Sheffield readers as new PM enters Downing Street
Star readers shared their thoughts on the day Andy Burnham officially becomes PM
Defence is one of the key issues people want to see Andy Burnham tackle when he enters Downing Street on Monday (July 20).
After a message on The Star’s Facebook page, readers shared their thoughts on what the priority should be for the soon-to-be Prime Minister.
Despite Sir Keir Starmer resigning last month, Makerfield MP Burnham will only become PM after meeting with King Charles III.
And as this new appointment sets to shake-up the Labour Government, people have identified defence as one of the biggest issues that need to be faced.
John Whiteley wrote: “I think the benefits system needs an urgent review and of course defence.”
“Defence, NHS, schools, economy, benefits and immigration,” Jonathan Cork added.
In June, Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP John Healey resigned as Secretary of State for Defence over ongoing arguments around the Defence Investment Plan (DIP).
He was replaced by Barnsley North MP Dan Jarvis, who managed to get the DIP over the line, though concerns still stand around the state of UK defence funding.
Others commentors raised concerns over Burnham’s mandate, saying that he should call a general election as soon as possible.
Darryl Crossley commented: “A general election should be first on his agenda.”
David Hallam echoed this point, adding: “First and most important call a general election and take it from there.”
Many others simply wrote “general election” in response to the Star’s question.
The British electoral system works in such a way that voters do not elect the PM, rather voting for their local representatives.
The party with the majority of MPs can create a Government, with the leader of said party taking the place of PM.
However, Burnham’s unusual rise to power - being elected in a by-election last month and quicky ascending to the top of the party - has raised questions about whether he has the public support to take over Downing Street.
So far, some of his main proposals have revolved around fixing the housing market with suggestions that he will restore North Sea oil drilling.
Responding to questions Burnham’s priorities, Mark Davenport said: “Concentrate on growth, if he can get the economy moving, and get a grip on next winters energy bills, lower foot inflation, everyone will feel better off, get rid of stamp duty for a year, get the housing market moving.”
Leo Beaumont added: “Approve domestic North Sea extraction immediately and negotiate a return to the Dublin Treaty framework with the EU.”
Another one of his early promises was to unite politics, moving away from what has been described as ‘Westminster point scoring’.
Alex Taylor-Lee said this should be one of the first changes, adding: “The division being sown by the extreme left and far right. Most normal people just want to get on with each other and get on with their lives.”