Prime Minister Andy Burnham has arrived in Liverpool for his first Labour Party Conference as leader, warning that the government must prepare for “tough decisions” in the coming days. The event at the ACC Liverpool marks Mr Burnham’s first major party gathering since succeeding Keir Starmer in July 2026.
Speaking during an interview for the Politics at Sam and Anne’s podcast, the Prime Minister suggested that the week ahead would involve “ripping off the plaster” on long-standing national issues. The comments come as speculation grows regarding a significant overhaul of social care funding and potential changes to the state pension triple-lock guarantee.
Social care and the triple-lock
The central pillar of the week’s policy agenda is expected to be the introduction of a universal social care system. Questions remain over how such a service will be financed without breaking 2024 manifesto pledges on general taxation.
Reports suggest the Prime Minister is considering reforms to the triple-lock pension guarantee to fund the new social care system. Under the reported proposals, the guarantee—which ensures pensions rise by the highest of inflation, average earnings, or 2.5%—could be modified to redirect funds toward elderly care. Policy analysts suggest this move represents a significant shift from previous fiscal commitments, though the government has yet to confirm the exact mechanism for the change.
The fiscal environment remains challenging for the new administration. According to the Office for National Statistics, inflation rose to 3.1% in August 2026. This increase, combined with rising borrowing costs linked to global geopolitical tensions, has placed additional pressure on the Treasury ahead of the October budget.
Keynote speech and timing
Delegates in Liverpool are awaiting the Prime Minister’s keynote speech, which is scheduled for the afternoon of Tuesday, 29 September. The address is expected to provide the definitive outline for the universal social care system and clarify whether the triple-lock will be fully abolished or merely adjusted.
The conference atmosphere in Liverpool is being framed as a departure from the leadership of Keir Starmer, with Mr Burnham attempting to balance his message with the practicalities of the current economic climate.
For the public, the immediate outcome of this week’s announcements will likely centre on eligibility for care services and future pension increases. Further details on these “tough decisions” are expected to emerge throughout the ministerial briefings scheduled before the Tuesday deadline.
