Andy Burnham appointed UK’s 59th prime minister

Buckingham Palace confirmed the appointment after Burnham met King Charles and accepted an invitation to form a new government.

Staff Writer

July 20, 2026

Andy Burnham with King Charles — Image: BBC

Article summary

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Andy Burnham has been appointed the United Kingdom's 59th prime minister after a private audience with King Charles at Buckingham Palace. The Palace confirmed he accepted the King's invitation to form a new administration and kissed hands upon his appointment.

Key points

Andy Burnham is the UK's 59th prime minister
He accepted King Charles's invitation to form a government
The appointment was confirmed at 15:20 local time

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Andy Burnham has been appointed the United Kingdom’s 59^th prime minister following a private audience with King Charles at Buckingham Palace.

In a statement, the Palace confirmed: “His Majesty received in audience the Rt Hon Andrew Burnham MP and requested him to form a new Administration. The Rt Hon Andrew Burnham MP accepted The King’s offer and kissed hands upon his appointment as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury.”