We need to be a cost-of-living government – getting that cost of living down, looking at all possible ways of doing that...” As a clear statement of intent, Andy Burnham’s message to colleagues at the first meeting of the new cabinet cannot be faulted. Each will be tasked with finding innovative ways that their own department can contribute to helping people to manage.
The prime minister is doing his job. He is responding to the public’s overriding concern, and visibly trying to assist. It is a healthy instinct – but it cannot overshadow the imperative of rebuilding the public finances, a job far from complete.
