UK appoints first Catholic prime minister

Andy Burnham. Photo: AFP

On July 20, 2026, Andy Burnham became prime minister of the United Kingdom following Keir Starmer’s resignation, making him the first Catholic to head the British government, The Catholic Herald reports.

King Charles III accepted Starmer’s resignation and asked the new prime minister to form a government. Several days earlier, Burnham had been elected leader of the ruling Labour Party.

Burnham was born in Liverpool to a family of Irish heritage, attended Roman Catholic schools, and has repeatedly spoken about his faith. In 2023, he met with Pope Francis.

Archbishop Richard Moth, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, has offered his congratulations to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, encouraging him to respond to injustice with “respect for the dignity of the person”.

Historically, most British prime ministers have belonged to the Church of England. Recent heads of government, however, have represented a range of religious beliefs: Keir Starmer described himself as an atheist, while Rishi Sunak is a Hindu.

Before becoming prime minister, Burnham served as mayor of Greater Manchester for nine years. He is married and has three children.

As the UOJ reported earlier, the Church of England approved special liturgies for euthanasia deaths.

Read also