British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said that the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine will not change “whatever threats we face” from Russia, striking a firm tone in his first parliamentary speech as prime minister.
Burnham said on Tuesday his predecessor Keir Starmer’s position on Ukraine was one he intended to maintain, while stressing that Britain did not seek to escalate the conflict.
“We do not seek escalation, but will instead stand firm in providing what help we can to enable Ukraine to defend itself,” Burnham told Parliament.
His remarks came days after Russia warned that British military facilities in Ukraine “and beyond” could become targets in response to Kiev’s use of UK-supplied missiles against targets inside Russia.
Burnham confirms COP31 visit to Türkiye
Turning to international climate policy, Burnham confirmed he would attend COP31 in Türkiye in November.
“I can confirm to the House that I will attend COP31 in Türkiye in November,” he said, referring to the climate summit scheduled to take place in Antalya from November 9-20.
Burnham cited provisional figures from the UK weather agency showing that summer 2026 was the warmest on record as he announced his plans to attend the summit.
The visit will allow Burnham to engage with international leaders on climate policy as governments face growing pressure to address rising temperatures and extreme weather.
Migration and prison policy on agenda
Burnham also said he would thank French President Emmanuel Macron during Macron’s visit to London on Wednesday for cooperation that has helped Britain prevent more than 48,000 asylum seekers from crossing the English Channel.
On prison policy, Burnham said people convicted of manslaughter, death by dangerous driving or indecent assault would not be affected by his government’s early-release scheme.
The announcement comes after the Conservative Party warned Monday that the policy could lead to dangerous prisoners being released as the government attempts to ease overcrowding.
The scheme was first introduced after Britain’s prison system came close to capacity in summer 2024, when fewer than 100 spaces remained. An updated version is due to take effect October 1.
