Andy Burnham is facing a backlash after refusing to answer questions from journalists following his first major speech. Sir Keir Starmer’s likely successor set out his plans for the economy and devolution in a key address in Manchester this morning.

But he has come under fire after leaving the stage without taking questions from the media.

Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice said: “Burnham’s coup is well underway. Big speech today with no questions from journalists. No debate in Parliament. No scrutiny from MPs until September. Power without accountability.”

He added: “It’s an outrage.”

Mr Burnham’s team blamed timing for him not taking questions as he is heading to Westminster this afternoon.