FAXTR
Verdict: Incorrect. By modern convention the Prime Minister is an MP, but there is no law that requires them to have been elected in a general election.

You have to be a member of the House of Lords or an elected member in a general election to become UK Prime Minister. Andy Burnham was neither of these and therefore has no legal right to be Prime Minister.

Claimed by Unknown

What fact-checkers found (1)

  • Full FactIncorrect. By modern convention the Prime Minister is an MP, but there is no law that requires them to have been elected in a general election.

    2026-07-17

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