Prime Minister Burnham has cancelled a series of public engagements after the death of his father, his office has said.
Burnham had earlier described how his father’s Alzheimer’s disease meant he did not recognise that his son had become prime minister. The premier’s comments about his father’s condition were made public during his time in office and drew sympathy from colleagues and the wider public.
No further details about the circumstances of the death have been released, and it is not yet known when Burnham will return to his official duties. It is common for senior politicians to pause public-facing work in the immediate period after a bereavement.
Officials have not provided information about funeral arrangements or other family matters, and have asked for privacy while the family grieves. Further updates on the prime minister’s schedule are expected to be announced when available.