Andy Burnham’s arrival in Downing Street could herald a more influential role for All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs), particularly those focused on public services, regional inequalities and social reform.

The new Prime Minister has previously demonstrated his willingness to engage with APPGs. In July 2025, he gave evidence to the APPG on Gambling Reform, supporting stronger local authority powers to tackle the proliferation of gambling premises. His involvement demonstrated an appreciation of cross-party parliamentary scrutiny and its potential to influence policy.

Burnham’s first speech as Prime Minister emphasised collaboration, problem-solving and transferring power away from Westminster. These priorities could create opportunities for APPGs to contribute evidence and recommendations directly to government policymaking.

APPGs have faced increasing scrutiny over external funding and potential commercial influence, with tighter parliamentary regulations introduced in 2023.

Burnham has not yet announced specific reforms affecting APPGs, and their regulation remains principally a parliamentary responsibility.

Nevertheless, his emphasis on collaborative government suggests that well-run, genuinely cross-party groups could find a receptive audience, particularly where their work supports practical solutions to longstanding national challenges.

For APPGs, the opportunities lie in demonstrating that independent, evidence-led collaboration can deliver meaningful policy change.