STORY
Donald Trump has described Andy Burnham as “extremely liberal” in his first public comments on the Labour frontrunner since Keir Starmer announced his resignation. The US President made the remarks after Burnham emerged as the clear favourite to become the next Prime Minister.
The comments come as British ministers and officials prepare for a change of Labour leader at a time of continued international pressure over Ukraine, the Middle East and defence spending. Starmer met European allies in Berlin this week as he sought to maintain diplomatic continuity before leaving office.
Burnham has not yet set out a detailed foreign policy programme as the leadership process has not formally begun. His first weeks in office, if he succeeds Starmer, are likely to include early decisions on defence, relations with Washington and the shape of the next Cabinet.