Andy Burnham has said he is ready to publicly disagree with US President Donald Trump whenever it is necessary to protect Britain’s national interests, insisting that his responsibility as prime minister is to put the UK first.
In his first major interview since taking office, Burnham told the BBC that while he had enjoyed a positive first conversation with Trump, he would not hesitate to speak out if he believed Britain’s interests were at stake.
Burnham Prioritises Britain’s National Interest
Burnham described his initial exchange with the US president as “really warm” but stopped short of saying whether he trusted Trump. Instead, he acknowledged that global politics is constantly changing and leaders must respond to events as they unfold.
He stressed that maintaining an independent foreign policy remains essential for Britain.
“I have to defend Britain’s national interest before anything else,” Burnham said, adding that he would always express a different opinion if that was the right course of action.
Willing to Disagree with Trump
Asked directly whether he would criticise President Trump if necessary, Burnham answered without hesitation.
He said that while the United States remains one of Britain’s closest allies, friendship should never prevent honest disagreements over issues affecting national security, foreign policy or Britain’s long-term interests.
Burnham also revealed he had concerns over Trump’s decision to launch military action against Iran and said he would continue speaking openly whenever he believed Britain’s position differed from Washington’s.
Defence Spending Remains a Key Challenge
The prime minister also addressed Britain’s defence budget, saying his government is currently focused on ensuring that existing military investment plans are fully funded before committing to further increases.
Although he declined to set a timeline for raising defence spending to 3% of GDP, Burnham said discussions on future funding would continue ahead of the government’s next budget.
He noted that his newly appointed chancellor fully understands the importance of strengthening Britain’s defence capabilities in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
No Plans for an Early General Election
Burnham dismissed speculation about calling an early general election before 2029, saying the country needs stability rather than another national vote.
He insisted his priority is rebuilding the economy, strengthening public services and restoring confidence in government rather than focusing on electoral politics.
“I don’t think people want another election,” Burnham said. “Our job now is getting the country back where it should be.”
Opposition Responds
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp welcomed Burnham’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with the United States but agreed that Britain should openly challenge any ally whenever national interests require it.
Philp also said the Conservative Party remains prepared for a general election whenever one is called, arguing that recent polling shows the political contest remains highly competitive.
