Editorial: Andy Burnham's proposals will need careful scrutiny in the months ahead

Andy Burnham has delivered his first Labour conference speech as the party leader and prime minister in Liverpool.

Speaking to the Labour faithful, he made a range of pledges that he hopes will energise his party and the voters at large.

In a speech lasting one hour and five minutes, the prime minister spoke about numerous issues, but his overall aim was to outline a plan to transform Britain, including his vow to give the public greater control over housing, water and energy.

Inevitably there was talk of the UK’s “long-term relationship” with the European Union. In a plan likely to alarm Brexiteers, he pledged to set out “options” for ties with Brussels later this year.

Mr Burnham also said Labour will fight the next election with a commitment to change the first-past-the-post system used in Westminster contests. Labour, he said, will pledge to overhaul the electoral system “so everyone’s vote counts and everyone’s voice is heard”.

The most headline-grabbing aspect of his speech was confirmation that he wants to reform the current pensions triple lock, which guarantees increases in line with the highest of inflation, earnings or 2.5%.

This would free up cash to fund an NHS-style care service in England.

Pensioners will understandably demand the utmost clarity on what this means for their finances.

Rounding off his speech, the prime minister claimed he had given the audience "what you often say is missing from politics – honesty, ideas and a clear direction for the country we all love".

Mr Burnham has referenced major issues and floated ideas that will need careful scrutiny in the months ahead.

Ultimately, the voters will cast their verdict at the ballot box on whether he really does have the answers to the multitude of problems faced by the UK.