Britain's Labour Party officially announced Andy Burnham as the new leader of the ruling party on Friday, clearing the final hurdle before he becomes prime minister on Monday.

Burnham began his first speech after his election by praising the level of support he received within the party. Appearing emotional at the start of his address, Burnham said: 'Thank you all. What a moment, and what support you have given me.'

He added: 'All our affiliated trade unions, all our socialist societies, and 379 of our MPs in Parliament.' Burnham affirmed that he is 'ready' to take on the party leadership.

Speaking about the reasons for the support he received, Burnham said: 'They all responded to the call from the people of Micklefield, on behalf of the marginalized areas across the country, for the return of the Labour Party they once knew. Today we answer that call. We will become that party again.'

He said: 'This is a proud day for me and my family, and it is also an emotional day, but it is a day I was ready for.'

He added: 'I am ready, ready to lead, and ready to build on the foundation laid by someone more than anyone else.'

The result of the leadership election was already a foregone conclusion after he secured the support of 379 out of 403 Labour MPs in the House of Commons by Thursday evening.

"Keir Starmer took us from worst defeat to greatest victory"

Burnham thanked the former party leader and prime minister, Keir Starmer, saying Starmer 'returned Labour to a position that allows it to change people's lives.'

The new Labour leader added: 'Under Keir Starmer's leadership, we went from our worst defeat to one of the best victories in our history,' referring to the party's win in the July 2024 election.

He continued: 'Today we thank Keir for his service to our party and our country.'

Burnham's Promises

Andy Burnham outlined five things he said he would work on to make Labour 'better,' explaining: 'First, I will work tirelessly to build a culture based on one Labour team, because change starts with us.'

He added that internal party divisions are a 'luxury,' with the greatest burden falling on those who need Labour the most.

He said: 'I have supported all Labour leaders throughout my life, because I believe that the Labour Party and the united labor movement are the best hope for our country.'

The other four changes announced by the new Labour leader are:

Working to build a 'new politics.'

Changing Labour's 'political direction.'

To be a leader for 'all parts' of the United Kingdom; for the north, south, east and west, and for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Returning power from Westminster and Whitehall 'and giving it to where people live.'

Burnham concluded his remarks by saying he loves 'every part of this country,' as well as 'all the different accents,' before joking that he loves only 'some football clubs.'