Britain's new PM heads on vacation after 14 days in office
Photo: UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham (Getty Images)
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has gone on vacation just two weeks after taking office, drawing outrage from his political opponents, according to The Times.
According to media reports, Burnham decided to take the trip after being persuaded by his aides.
They reportedly told the British leader that he needed a break after the exhausting by-election campaign in Makerfield and the preparations leading up to his appointment as prime minister.
Downing Street has so far declined to reveal where Burnham has gone for his family vacation.
It is known, however, that he will be accompanied by his personal security detail.
"The Government continues to operate as normal, with the Prime Minister remaining in contact with officials, holding meetings and receiving regular updates on Government business," Burnham’s official spokesperson said.
Media reports indicate that First Secretary of State Louise Haigh will be the most senior cabinet member officially on duty this week. However, she will not be serving as acting prime minister.
Burnham’s early vacation quickly drew criticism from Reform UK chairman Lee Anderson.
"Two weeks into the job, and Andy Burnham has already had enough. After dropping a number of unfunded commitments and overseeing over 2,000 illegal migrants breaking into our country, he’s bunked off for a jolly abroad," Anderson said.
As previously reported, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently met with Burnham. Read more about what the Ukrainian and British leaders agreed on during their talks.
It has also emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be preparing an early test for Britain’s new prime minister.
