Kathmandu— British Prime Minister Andy Burnham faced his first parliamentary questioning session on Wednesday, a day after making his debut in the House of Commons. Burnham, who replaced Keir Starmer as prime minister in July, vowed to address economic challenges and reaffirm military commitments despite growing fiscal pressures at home. He also promised to bring hope back to Britain by implementing stronger public control over essential services.
Military Commitments
Burnham assured the House of Commons that the UK remains fully committed to its military obligations and will fund the Defence Investment Plan, aiming to meet NATO commitments by 2035. He emphasized there is no problem with the country's commitment to defense despite economic challenges.
Economic Challenges
The new prime minister faced criticism from Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch over how his administration plans to fund extensive commitments as UK government borrowing has soared. Burnham attributed market instability to the previous Conservative government's economic record and promised strict fiscal discipline alongside urgent relief for families struggling with a severe cost-of-living crisis.
International Security
Burnham addressed international security concerns, referencing a recent attempted attack on Leipzig/Halle airport blamed by Germany on Russia. He called for solidarity among British lawmakers to support both Germany and Ukraine amid escalating regional tensions.
10-Year Plan
Burnham announced plans to release a 10-year agenda before the end of the year, focusing on stronger public control over essential services like energy and water utilities. He highlighted that high household energy bills are impacting economic growth and business investment in Britain.
In one of his first actions as prime minister, Burnham's government announced a tax cut on household electricity bills set to take effect next month, alongside relief measures for pubs and hospitality venues.
(With inputs from Al Jazeera)
Originally published on abcnews.com.np.
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