Burnham, a potential successor to the UK prime minister, says he is committed to building a more efficient country.

After Starmer's resignation as UK prime minister, markets have focused on who potential successor Burnham would appoint as chancellor and on the likely fiscal policy path. Latest CFTC weekly data show investors hold $8.72bn of sterling short positions, the largest since May 2015 when $9.567bn was recorded.

MOFCOM spokesperson said on Feb. 24, 2026 China added 20 Japanese entities, including Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., to its export-control list and placed another 20 Japanese entities, including Subaru Corporation, on a watchlist. MOFCOM said the measures target a limited number of entities and apply only to dual-use items, are lawful, do not affect normal China–Japan trade, and that law-abiding Japanese firms need not be concerned; Beijing said the steps are intended to deter Japanese re-militarization and nuclear ambitions.