Former Prime Minister Tony Blair told Labour leader-designate Andy Burnham that he should not expect to be loved as he prepares for the premiership [1].
The warning comes as Burnham readies himself to become Prime Minister following the resignation of Keir Starmer [2]. This transition marks a pivotal shift in Labour leadership, with Blair offering pragmatic advice on the psychological toll of governing the United Kingdom.
Blair spoke to Burnham during a summer drinks event hosted by the Tony Blair Institute in central London [3]. The exchange focused on the inherent friction between implementing necessary policy changes and maintaining public approval.
"You are not going to be loved," Blair said [4].
Blair said that the role of the Prime Minister often requires making decisions that alienate significant portions of the electorate. He suggested that pursuing universal popularity is an unrealistic goal for any leader attempting to enact a specific political agenda.
Burnham is expected to be appointed Prime Minister shortly. The transition follows a period of internal party reorganization after Starmer stepped down [2]. Blair's comments reflect his own experience leading the party and the country through contentious periods of reform.
The advice served as a cautionary reminder that the honeymoon period for any new leader is brief. Blair said that the ability to withstand public dislike is a requirement for survival in 10 Downing Street.
“"You are not going to be loved."”
This interaction signals a transition of power within the Labour Party where the focus is shifting from Starmer's tenure to Burnham's expected premiership. Blair's warning highlights the traditional tension in British politics between electoral popularity and the legislative necessity of making unpopular decisions, suggesting that Burnham may face significant public or political headwinds early in his term.
