Prime Minister Andy Burnham Meets Devolved Leaders in Glasgow

Andy Burnham visited Glasgow on July 23, 2026, to attend the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony at the Hydro and hold his first in-person meetings as Prime Minister with devolved leaders. Marking his third day in office, Burnham met with Scottish First Minister John Swinney and Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth to establish a collaborative partnership between the UK and devolved governments.

Burnham focused the discussions on economic growth across all UK postcodes and immediate cost-of-living relief, specifically noting his decision to remove VAT from electricity bills to save money for millions of households. However, tensions remained regarding constitutional issues. In a preliminary phone call, Burnham told Swinney that they would have to "agree to disagree" regarding a second Scottish independence referendum, which the Prime Minister refused to discuss.

Rhun ap Iorwerth used the meeting to advocate for parity of powers and a fairer funding model for Wales, while emphasizing that decisions affecting Wales should be made within Wales. Meanwhile, John Swinney signaled a strained relationship with the UK government by refusing to work with Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander. This Glasgow visit marks the start of a broader UK tour planned for August, which will include meetings with leadership in Northern Ireland.