Is the Burnham bounce already fading? PM's popularity dips amid prisoner early release row

By JAMES TAPSFIELD, UK POLITICAL EDITOR Published: 11:59, 16 August 2026 | Updated: 12:04, 16 August 2026 There was a hint that the edge could be coming off the 'Andy Burnham bounce' today. Less than a month after the PM entered No10, a poll suggested his favourability rating has dipped by five points over the past week. Although Mr Burnham remains in positive territory the findings could indicate that the row over prisoner early release are having an impact. He also came under fire for heading off on a family holiday a fortnight into his tenure. The Opinium research detected a net approval score of plus 11 for the Labour leader, down from plus 16 the week before. However, that was still significantly better than the minus four rating for Kemi Badenoch. Nigel Farage was on minus 28 and Green boss Zack Polanski minus 24. Labour maintained a narrow lead on voting intention, with 27 per cent support to Reform's 25 per cent. The Tories were on 18 per cent. Less than a month after Andy Burnham entered No10, a poll suggested his favourability rating has dipped by five points over the past week Mr Burnham has been credited with reviving his party's fortunes after Keir Starmer's departure Mr Burnham has been credited with reviving his party's fortunes after Keir Starmer's departure, with Brits seemingly willing to give the former Greater Manchester Mayor a chance. Opinium found the perception that Labour is united has increased by 37 points since June, while more people now view it as having a clear sense of purpose.  However, Mr Burnham - who embarks on the latest leg of a national tour tomorrow - is facing an intimidating array of challenges in the coming months. The public finances are under massive pressure ahead of the Budget on October 28, with fears of yet more tax rises to come. Chancellor John Healey is looking for ways to drum up more cash for defence as the Iran crisis takes its toll on the UK economy.    Reform and the Tories have been demanding curbs to welfare, but Mr Burnham has been carefully avoiding committing to outright cuts. Has Burnham lost public trust by releasing prisoners early? What's your view? Labour maintained a narrow lead on voting intention, with 27 per cent support to Reform's 25 per cent. The Tories were on 18 per cent