• Andy Burnham says he wants to lead a pro-business Labour Party.
• The new Labour leader promises a cabinet that reflects every wing of the party.
• Burnham argues that stronger public control over the cost of essentials is needed to keep inflation under control.

UK Labour leader Andy Burnham said on Friday that he intends to lead a pro-business Labour Party, arguing that his experience working with businesses as Mayor of Greater Manchester will serve as the model for his future government, according to Reuters.

In his first remarks as party leader, Burnham stressed the importance of keeping Labour united, saying the party will not defeat the right if it remains divided by internal infighting. He also said he would not suspend or punish Labour members for holding views that differ from his own.

Burnham added that he has not yet decided on the composition of his cabinet, but said it would reflect all parts of the Labour Party. He also called for a less toxic political discourse and said Labour would not try to outflank the Reform Party on its own political ground.

On the economic front, Burnham argued that insufficient public control over the cost of essential goods makes it harder to control inflation. The comments reflect his intention to combine a pro-business approach with greater public intervention in sectors considered strategic. Reuters reported that Burnham presented his experience of working with businesses in Greater Manchester as the blueprint for his future government.

Market reaction

The British Pound (GBP) remained largely unmoved by the remarks, with GBP/USD trading around 1.3430 at the time of press, up 0.35% on the day.