Tributes are pouring in for Andy Burnham's father, Roy, who has passed away at the age of 86, with many councillors and Labour Party supporters sending their condolences.
The Prime Minister has cancelled planned engagements following the death of his father, who lived with Alzheimer’s disease.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham had been due to host business leaders at No 10 on Monday afternoon, but his diary has been cleared for Monday and Tuesday.
His father’s illness has shaped his views on social care and influenced his plans for reform.
Thinking of Prime Minister Andy Burnham and his family following the death of his father Roy.
This is a moment for compassion. My condolences to him and all his family. 🕊️— Cllr Samantha Gethen (@Gethens) September 14, 2026
Tributes pour in for Andy Burnham's father, Roy
Councillors and party supporters from across the Britain have started sharing tributes for Roy.
Councillor Samantha Gethen said: "Thinking of Prime Minister Andy Burnham and his family following the death of his father Roy.
"This is a moment for compassion.
"My condolences to him and all his family."
Labour Councillor for Charlestown, Uzma Jafri, said: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s father, Roy.
"I extend my sincere condolences to Andy and his family at this very difficult time.
"Losing a loved one is never easy, and I hope that Andy and his family can find strength and comfort in the memories they shared with Roy.
"Our thoughts are very much with the Burnham family."
Nadhim Zahawi, a member of Reform UK, said: "My deepest condolences to Prime Minister Andy Burnham and his family on the passing of his father, Roy Burnham.
"Wishing the Prime Minister and all the Burnham family strength and comfort at this very difficult time.
"May Roy rest in peace."
My deepest condolences to Prime Minister Andy Burnham @andyburnham and his family on the passing of his father, Roy Burnham. Wishing the Prime Minister and all the Burnham family strength and comfort at this very difficult time. May Roy rest in peace.
— Nadhim Zahawi (@nadhimzahawi) September 14, 2026
A Labour party supporter said: "My thoughs are with the Prime Minister and his family today, following the passing of his father.
"Today is not a day for politics, but a day for love and condolence for all the families affected by dementia.
"May Roy Burnham Rest in Eternal Peace."
In an interview with The Times on the eve of taking office in July, Mr Burnham said his father was unaware that he was on the brink of power.
He said: "That's a sadness because he would be proud.
"The way I look at it, it's his achievement as well.
"A whole family achievement although he doesn't know it."
In a major speech about reform of social care later that month, Mr Burnham promised to help "my dad and the millions like him" faced with the unfairness of the current system.
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