KEMI Badenoch branded Andy Burnham a “people pleaser” and not a leader in their first PMQs face-off today.

The Conservative Party leader for wanting to spend more on welfare despite not having a spending plan.

Prime Minister's QuestionsKemi Badenoch speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions today Credit: PA 02/09/2026 - PMQS - Kemi Badenoch presses PM Andy Burnham on borrowing costs at his first Prime Minister's Questions. Asked how he plans to tackle rising debt costs, Burnham blames the "turbulence ...Andy Burnham refused to rule out tax rises at PMQs today Credit: UK PARLIAMENT/UNPIXS

Mr Burnham also failed to rule out raising taxes when he was pressed by the Tory leader on whether he would hike them.

Ms Badenoch said: “I think it’s delightful that he wants to make everyone happy but a Prime Minister needs to be a leader, not a people-pleaser.”

She later told the Prime Minister the “honeymoon is over” and urged him to “ditch the vibes” and find money for defence spending.

Is Mr Burnham too focused on keeping the public onside to be a successful leader? Have your say in our exclusive poll and share your thoughts below for the chance to win a £100 voucher.

Love to debate? for the boldest opinion on the issues shaping Britain.

Online Form – Poll of the Day – Competition comments form