Five tests for Andy Burnham at Labour conference

Andy Burnham faces five big tests as he prepares for his first conference speech as Prime Minister, according to an analysis by the Institute for Government, the independent think tank.

The institute says Mr Burnham's political capital is at its highest now, two months after he took office, and that this is his best chance to prepare the country for difficult choices.

1. The Budget

The economic outlook has worsened since the spring because of the war involving Iran. Lower growth increases borrowing, and higher inflation makes spending plans harder to deliver. The institute argues that the Prime Minister should "set expectations now" among MPs, his party, the public and the markets about what the Budget will involve.

2. Reforming public services

Clear plans are needed for prisons, which face a capacity crisis, for the courts, including proposals to reform jury trials, and for the NHS, where ministers want more care to move towards prevention. Mr Burnham has said his speech will say more about how he would fund his promised national care service, and the institute warns against over-promising and under-delivering.

3. Welfare

Two reviews are due to report later this autumn: one led by Sir Stephen Timms on disability benefits, and one led by Alan Milburn on young people who are out of work. The institute says the Government "must lead public opinion, not be at its mercy" when difficult choices come.

4. Devolution

Moving power and money out of Westminster is Mr Burnham's big idea, based on his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester. The institute says he needs to explain how quickly it can happen with money tight, and that the speed of rollout will have to match how ready each region is.

5. Constitutional reform

Mr Burnham has previously backed proportional representation, changes to party funding, reform of the House of Lords and a written constitution. The institute says he should make clear which of these he will pursue, and what is realistic before the next general election, due by 2029.

Why devolution matters here

Birmingham sits at the heart of one of the country's largest combined authorities, which already has powers over transport, skills and housing. Any further devolution would shape what decisions are made in the region rather than in London.