Burnham's big reset: UK PM vows new social contract, closer EU ties

Burnham unveils bold plans for Britain United Kingdom Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Tuesday unveiled an ambitious reform agenda, promising a "new social contract for the 21st century," changes to the electoral system and a reset in a ties with Britain's European neighbours.But Burnham acknowledged that his plans would involve difficult financial choices and could carry political risks.“Small things will not get us through what are difficult times,” UK PM said in a tough-love speech at the centre-left Labour Party’s annual conference in Liverpool.He promised more social housing, improved education and more affordable care for the elderly, while warning that the government would have to make difficult decisions on welfare and pension spending to fund some of the reforms.Anticipating criticism, Burnham said: “I have given you what you often say is missing from politics: Honesty, ideas and a clear direction for the country we all love.”A major part of Burnham’s agenda is the creation of a “national care service” that would be free at the point of use and funded through taxation, similar in principle to the National Health Service.Burnham became emotional while speaking about his own e...