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Mikey Faulkner

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What does Burnham's appointment of ex-Blair minister mean?

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Andy Burnham appears to have taken another major step towards power, bringing in a big name from the Tony Blair era - James Purnell - as his chief of staff.

What does it say about the Burnham operation and the government he is trying to build?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy unpack a decades-long relationship, and discuss why it's being welcomed by Labour MPs, business and the City.

Starmer ally Darren Jones has ruled himself out of a leadership challenge. Is the path now clear for a Burnham coronation?

Plus, Anne has been speaking to Reform UK's Robert Jenrick. How do they deal with a new Labour leader, and do they have a clear narrative on migration?

Sky News

(c) Sky News 2026: What does Burnham's appointment of ex-Blair minister mean?

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