Andy Burnham’s change in tack on fiscal rules and bond markets is understandable
Andy Burnham has adjusted his stance on fiscal rules and bond markets as he seeks to replace Keir Starmer as prime minister. He has toned down his previous criticism of the bond markets, now suggesting support for the government's fiscal rules. This shift comes amid rising borrowing costs and concerns about political instability in the UK.
- ▪Andy Burnham previously stated that Britain was too 'in hock' to the bond markets.
- ▪He has now expressed support for the government's current fiscal rules and aims to reduce debt.
- ▪The International Monetary Fund has indicated that the next UK leader must address high debt levels and rising borrowing costs.
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Andy Burnham said last year that Britain was too ‘in hock’ to the bond markets. Photograph: Peter Byrne/PAView image in fullscreenAndy Burnham said last year that Britain was too ‘in hock’ to the bond markets. Photograph: Peter Byrne/PAEconomic policyAnalysisAndy Burnham’s change in tack on fiscal rules and bond markets is understandableRichard Partington Senior economics correspondentBookies’ favourite to replace Keir Starmer tones down stance on government borrowing to assuage City investors UK politics live – latest updates Mon 18 May 2026 12.58 EDTLast modified on Mon 18 May 2026 13.00 EDTShareAndy Burnham has always faced a narrow path to replace Keir Starmer as prime minister: a tricky byelection, a leadership contest that is yet to be declared, and a far from constructive bond…
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