The Burnham Bounce: A Test of Substance for Labour’s New Leadership

The recent TUC congress in Brighton has left many union members and observers with a sense of optimism and trepidation. Andy Burnham’s absence, following his father’s passing, was felt throughout the gathering, but his shadow, Louise Haigh, effectively captured the mood: “the necessity to be bolder” in Labour’s second chance at government.

This sentiment reflects a deeper concern among union leaders that the new No 10 team will deliver on its promises. The past few years have seen a growing disconnect between Labour’s leadership and some of its core supporters, particularly in the trade union movement. Keir Starmer’s regime has been marked by a more cautious approach to policy-making, which has sometimes alienated traditional allies.

Senior union figures speak warmly of their recent interactions with “Andy”, who has made an effort to reconnect with those who have felt left behind. However, as Joanne Thomas, general secretary of Usdaw, cautioned, “we need to get it right” on issues like abolishing zero-hours contracts and implementing workers’ rights.

A Make-or-Break Moment for Labour’s New Leadership

The TUC delegates’ voting in favour of policy statements on various tricky issues is a significant moment for Burnham’s prime ministerial in-tray. The decisions made on the future relationship with the EU, Shabana Mahmood’s migration reforms, and other contentious issues will set the tone for Labour’s approach to governance.

Union leaders are keenly aware that the real tests lie ahead, particularly when it comes to implementation. The Employment Rights Act and its provisions on abolishing zero-hours contracts are a crucial example of this. As Thomas pointed out, “the implementation means everything” – and union members are eager to see tangible results.

Science, Business, and Workers’ Rights

Mike Clancy’s concerns about the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) lacking focus are well-founded. The folding of science into this department raises legitimate fears that it will be viewed primarily through a business lens. This has broader implications for Labour’s commitment to workers’ rights.

Prospect’s campaign against real-terms cuts to science budgets highlights the challenges faced by this new department. Clancy’s words serve as a warning: “This is the first test of BIST … and whether this department’s really going to understand science culture.”

A Make-or-Break Decision on North Sea Drilling

The GMB and Unite are anxiously awaiting the government’s decision on drilling in the Jackdaw gas and Rosebank oilfields. This issue has been contentious, with many within Labour’s coalition opposed to further exploitation of these declining fields.

Sharon Graham and Gary Smith have raised concerns about Ed Miliband’s potential appointment as chancellor, highlighting the time constraint this would impose. However, they are also adamant that a “yes” vote on future drilling would only delay the inevitable: creating an industry based on green fuels or alternative energy sources.

A Budget for the Many?

Rachel Reeves’ early decision to limit winter fuel payments was a misstep that Labour is keen to correct. Unite’s suggestion of unfreezing income tax thresholds and taking fresh action on household bills has resonated with many delegates. However, the shaky global backdrop and Labour’s fiscal rules may leave John Healey with little room for manoeuvre.

Sharon Graham’s fiery speech calling for a bank windfall tax to fund energy support is a stark reminder of the need for bold action. Her words should serve as a warning to those in the Treasury who seem committed to kicking big spending decisions into next year: “what is the point of us electing politicians” if they cannot act?

In the end, it will not be the policy statements or voting at the TUC congress that define Labour’s new leadership. It will be their actions – or lack thereof – in the coming months. Will they deliver on their promises, or will we see a repeat of past mistakes? The clock is ticking, and the “Burnham bounce” will soon give way to reality.