PM Andy Burnham goes overseas two weeks after taking office

Prime Minister Andy Burnham is taking a family holiday abroad this week, just over two weeks after entering Downing Street, a move that has drawn criticism from political opponents while receiving a defense from the Conservative leader. Burnham, who became Prime Minister on July 20, will remain in contact with officials and continue to hold meetings during the break, with his allies and Downing Street insisting the government will function normally in his absence.

The holiday was confirmed on August 3, following earlier indications from his team that he had canceled such plans. Officials have not disclosed the destination but confirmed he is traveling overseas. During his absence, Louise Haigh, the First Secretary of State and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, will be the most senior minister in Westminster, though a spokesman clarified she will not be taking day-to-day decisions.

The announcement has sparked a partisan response. Reform UK figures have been sharply critical. Party chairman Lee Anderson stated that two weeks into the job, Burnham has "already had enough," criticizing what he called "unfunded commitments" and referencing over 2,000 migrant crossings. Deputy...