Shortly before delivering a keynote address at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool on Tuesday, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham convened a political cabinet meeting to outline his vision for the government’s future agenda. Described by attendees as relaxed and confident, Burnham eschewed traditional formal attire, opting for a polo shirt as he presented a series of policy proposals intended to reshape the party’s platform ahead of the next general election.

Among the key initiatives Burnham put forward were plans to overhaul the current triple lock on pensions, introduce a new national care service, lift the ban on public ownership of water companies, implement electoral reform, and explore a potential route back to membership in the European Union. The prime minister acknowledged that not all his ministers would fully embrace these policies, but emphasized his conviction that bold, transformative measures were necessary to redirect the country’s course.

Those present characterized the approach as a “shock and awe” strategy, reflecting a decisive break from the previous leadership under Sir Keir Starmer. Many cabinet members had played crucial roles in Burnham’s recent rise, which followed a largely uncontentious internal challenge to Starmer’s leadership over the summer. While some reservations remain about certain proposals, the prevailing mood within the party was one of relief and cautious optimism, with some ministers expressing near euphoria at Labour’s improved electoral prospects.

Burnham’s standing among colleagues was notably strong. One cabinet member referred to him as the “alpha dog,” while another suggested the conference embodied the tone appropriate for a party fresh from a decisive electoral victory. The conference itself took on a festive atmosphere, featuring regional tours by Burnham, karaoke sessions including a spirited rendition of ABBA’s “Waterloo” by Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, and a performance by 1990s pop group the Sugababes. Throughout, Burnham mingled with supporters, even as aides took measures to manage enthusiastic crowds.

The prime minister’s speech was seen as a significant moment not only for its policy content but also for its personal resonance. Burnham became visibly emotional recalling a political attack by Scottish National Party leader John Swinney on the day his father passed away two weeks ago. The display of passion provided a striking contrast to the more controlled style of his predecessor. The speech concluded to sustained applause from ministers, with Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband reportedly moved to tears.

Burnham confirmed that the recent death of his father—and the funeral scheduled for the following day—had made the period deeply emotional. Speaking at a reception, he said he was channeling those feelings into his work.

Despite the positive atmosphere, questions remain about Labour’s ability to maintain momentum. The prime minister’s speech largely focused on the long-term vision, with limited reference to pressing immediate challenges such as the government’s upcoming difficult budget, a worsening cost-of-living crisis, and surging energy prices. Burnham acknowledged an ongoing energy crisis and indicated that further support measures would be detailed in the budget set for October 28. Measures such as extending the freeze on fuel duty are anticipated, but fiscal limitations mean that most relief will likely be limited to short-term reprieves.

Some ministers have expressed concerns about Chancellor John Healey’s recent conference address, describing it as subdued and lacking impact. Critics within Labour labeled it “flat” and “dour,” though Healey’s allies argued that the full ambition of plans for British industrial revival and fiscal devolution would become clearer post-budget.

For now, Burnham holds considerable influence within the party. Over the past year, he has transitioned from a peripheral figure and potential challenger to Starmer into a central political force. Speaking at a private reception for union representatives, Burnham quipped that unlike previous years, speculation about a leadership challenge was no longer necessary.