Andy Burnham pledges public control over energy, water

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham told parliament on September 1 that his government would seek stronger public control over essential services, especially energy and water.

Burnham, addressing MPs for the first time since taking power in July, said more detail would be set out in a 10-year plan for Britain due before the end of the year.

He said the plan would aim to make essentials work for “people and places again”. He also said household energy bills were the highest in Europe and that energy costs were affecting business and inward investment.

Burnham replaced Keir Starmer six weeks ago. Soon after entering Downing Street, he announced a tax cut on household electricity bills due to take effect next month and decided to ease a tax on pubs and other hospitality venues.

Britain has faced a years-long cost-of-living crisis, including recent large rises in water bills to help debt-laden water suppliers. The remarks came amid speculation that the government could nationalise Thames Water, the country’s biggest supplier.

Starmer, who stepped down as leader this summer, said on September 1 that he would quit parliament to focus on international affairs.