Story perspectives

Burnham Picks Mahmood as Chancellor, £38 B Funding Hurdle

7/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to appoint Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood as chancellor, a move Labour MPs say could revive welfare-cut policies and whose tax-skeptical record raises doubts about raising the £38 billion needed.
The incoming chancellor must secure funding for devolved mayoral income-tax powers and a special-needs education investment.
Police and crime commissioners warn that inadequate support for SEND children could increase recruitment into criminal gangs.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to appoint Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood as chancellor, a move Labour MPs say could revive welfare-cut policies and whose tax-skeptical record raises doubts about raising the £38 billion needed.
The incoming chancellor must secure funding for devolved mayoral income-tax powers and a special-needs education investment.
Police and crime commissioners warn that inadequate support for SEND children could increase recruitment into criminal gangs.