In the first 100 days of his tenure as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham's administration has implemented a few modest policies but has largely avoided making significant decisions on several pressing national issues. Among the limited initiatives introduced is a £2 cap on bus fares, a measure that, while popular, falls short of providing substantial political momentum.

Key areas such as defence spending, welfare reform, and migration policy have seen little decisive action. The government has yet to reaffirm its commitment to the long-standing target of allocating 3 percent of GDP to defence by 2030. A planned review of the military budget faces postponement until next autumn, further delaying clarity on defence priorities.

Welfare reform appears similarly stalled despite the growing concern over the cost of benefits, which exceeded income tax revenue in the previous fiscal year. There is no indication that the administration plans to address the perceived excesses within the welfare system, a critical issue for many policymakers.

On migration, the government’s approach centers on highlighting a reduction in small-boat crossings across the English Channel. However, migrant crossings continue at a high rate, often through larger vessels, indicating that the challenge remains unresolved.

Social care reform, a topic that has generated significant debate, is also deferred. The government plans to postpone overhauls of adult social care until after the next parliamentary term, which aligns with the limited details released in its initial proposals.

One area where the administration has signaled some progress is in energy policy. The government recently approved drilling at the North Sea’s Jackdaw gas field, although the decision on the more expansive Rosebank oil field remains uncertain.

Burnham’s positioning on the European Union has been marked by notable shifts and controversy. Despite earlier statements rejecting renewed efforts to rejoin the EU, the Prime Minister has since pushed for closer ties with Brussels. This change has sparked debate, especially following public misstatements regarding the influence of Russia on the Brexit referendum and conflicting assertions about the need for a public vote before reinstating freedom of movement, a core EU policy.

Critics argue that the Prime Minister’s approach reflects a disconnect between his previous municipal leadership experience and the demands of national government. Some have pointed to his references to the 1970s and comments linking national security to social welfare as indicative of challenges adapting to the prime ministerial role.

As the government prepares to present its upcoming Budget, observers await whether Burnham will articulate a clearer vision or demonstrate policy ambition. However, assessments of his initial 100 days in office suggest that substantial breakthroughs remain elusive.