Burnham brings in top economists before possible leadership run

Andy Burnham appointed three economic advisors on June 18, 2026, in a move seen as an effort to bolster market confidence ahead of a potential leadership bid within the Labour Party. The advisors include Andy Haldane, former Chief Economist at the Bank of England; Richard Hughes, former chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility; and Jim O’Neill, a crossbench peer and former Treasury minister known for his work on George Osborne's "Northern Powerhouse" initiative. Burnham, the current Mayor of Greater Manchester, is reportedly considering a challenge to Keir Starmer's leadership. The appointments signal Burnham's intent to present a credible economic platform as he contemplates a return to national politics. Haldane's tenure at the Bank of England spanned from 2009 to 2019, during which he played a significant role in monetary policy discussions. Hughes led the Office for Budget Responsibility from 2018 to 2023, providing independent analysis of the UK's public finances. O'Neill served as a Treasury minister under the Conservative government and was instrumental in promoting regional economic development strategies.