Andy Burnham, described as a prime minister-in-waiting, says he will not pursue what he calls “crude cuts” to welfare. In his first broadcast interview since winning the Makerfield by-election, he argues that reducing welfare in that way would increase poverty. The outlets also report that Burnham frames the issue alongside pressure on household bills, saying people need “breathing space” on energy costs. Alongside ruling out welfare cuts, the reports indicate he hints that the government’s tax approach may need to change to fund its plans, suggesting taxes could rise, though details of any specific measures are not included in the provided summaries. Overall, the coverage focuses on his commitment to protect welfare spending and his broader message that support for households should not be reduced abruptly while energy costs remain a concern.