Andy Burnham says no early election, focus is people "feeling a bit of hope in their lives again"

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has rejected the idea of an early general election, telling BBC regional political editors before Labour’s conference in Liverpool that his attention is on easing household expenses and supporting companies rather than another campaign. He also said no election would coincide with East Midlands council elections next May. The remarks follow reports that some advisers had weighed a vote as soon as next year and polling suggesting Labour’s position has improved since Burnham succeeded Keir Starmer in July, though Reform UK and the Conservatives remain competitive. The next general election must be held by August 2029 under the current timetable. Burnham is attending his first Labour conference as prime minister this weekend, where some members are expected to discuss a snap election.