His public criticism is a sign that Mr Burnham’s premiership could face problems from Starmer loyalists. Mr Burnham said: “I said I wanted to give people breathing space, and that’s what I’m announcing on my second day as Prime Minister. Officials said the VAT cut, from 5% to 0%, is estimated to reduce the consumer prices index measure of inflation by around 0.10 percentage points. For households with dual fuel bills the VAT cut will only apply to the electricity used, not gas, Downing Street said. Anneliese Midgley, who played a major role in Mr Burnham’s return to Parliament and ascent to No 10, has been made chief whip.