Andy Burnham confirms HMRC income tax change for all workers in England if he becomes PM

Sir Keir Starmer shock resignation as UK Prime Minister and Labour Party leader on Monday has turbo-charged Andy Burnham ascent, with the newly elected Makerfield MP now poised to take the top job. Burnham, widely dubbed the 'King of the North', has confirmed his intention to run for leadership, setting the stage for significant income tax changes that could reshape finances for workers across England. Starmer's departure, triggered by a dismal showing in recent local elections and growing internal pressure, has opened a clear path for Burnham, especially after key rival Wes Streeting reportedly stepped aside. The incoming leader has signaled he'd consider raising the Personal Allowance, a move that could benefit lower and middle-income earners by reducing their taxable income. However, to balance the books and adhere to Labour's pledge against raising core taxes like National Insurance and VAT for working people, Burnham may look to reintroduce a 50% Income Tax rate for the highest earners, a policy previously in place between 2010 and 2013. This strategy aims to shift the tax burden while maintaining fiscal stability. With nominations for the Labour leadership contest opening on July 9, the political machinery is whirring, though Burnham's path appears largely uncontested. Beyond income tax, expect a potential overhaul of Inheritance Tax, replacing it with a broad Social Care Levy on inherited assets, and reforms to regressive taxes like Council Tax and Stamp Duty, possibly favoring a Land Value Tax. These bold proposals signal a distinctive 'Manchesterism' approach to national policy, promising a fresh economic direction for the UK under its likely new Prime Minister by early September.