Why have the police banned amplifiers outside No 10 for Andy Burnham’s speech?
The Metropolitan Police announced today that it will not allow amplifiers outside Number 10 as Andy Burnham delivers his inaugural address as prime minister.
Stepping into the steps of Number 10, the former Manchester mayor will celebrate the arrival of the UK’s seventh leader in a decade.
Mr Burnham is expected to outline a 10-year plan when addressing the nation, promising to give struggling households “breathing space” and admitting he is “acutely conscious” of the rapid change of Prime Ministers over the past decade.
The Metropolitan Police wrote on social media: “Conditions apply in Whitehall tomorrow (Monday, July 20). Anyone gathering near the gates of Downing Street to observe events linked to the new prime minister should not use enhanced noise equipment and remain in the shaded area.”
Police added that these conditions would last between 10.30am and 1.30pm, when Mr Burnham was expected to speak.
Previous major speeches outside the prime minister’s residence were marked by traces of unplanned support as pranksters sought to make light of the incident.
Last month, Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation announcement was interrupted by pro-EU activist Steve Bray, who played the European Union anthem. Praise for Joy Outside the door of Downing Street. Those watching the event live were able to hear the melody.
Two years ago, Mr Bray also disrupted then-prime minister Rishi Sunak’s announcement of the 2024 general election with the song D:Ream. Things Can Only Get BetterThe theme song of Labour’s successful 1997 election campaign.
The prankster claims he was later banned from all streets around Whitehall and Parliament because of the prank, but has since returned regularly.
Today’s order will legally prevent Mr Bray, among other pranksters, from interrupting Mr Burnham’s speech using loudspeaker equipment.
It appears that he moved to Buckingham Palace in response to his order, video footage of which was shared on social media.
Mr Burnham became Labor leader on Friday and then faces a weekend wait to become prime minister. After Sir Keir Starmer tendered his resignation to King Charles today, Mr Burnham is likely to visit the monarch at Buckingham Palace, where he will be invited to form his government.
Details of the former mayor’s cabinet picks, and possibly more details of government plans, are expected to be announced on Monday evening.
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