Andy Burnham says no to early UK election: "rather than putting people back into an election cycle"

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has ruled out calling an early general election, telling BBC regional political editors ahead of the Labour Party conference in Liverpool that no vote is planned soon. Asked whether a general election would be held next May alongside East Midlands council elections, he said no. His comments came amid speculation, and reports that some advisers had reportedly weighed a poll as early as next year. Recent polling suggests Labour's standing has improved since Burnham replaced Sir Keir Starmer in July, though Reform UK and the Conservatives remain competitive. An early election would raise questions about whether Burnham seeks a fresh mandate beyond Labour's 2024 manifesto pledges; the next election is due by August 2029. He said his priorities are living costs and business support.