Burnham has said he will not categorically rule out raising taxes when the government publishes its autumn Budget, deepening an early debate over the fiscal choices facing the administration.
His comments come as ministers prepare to set out their first Budget, a high-stakes exercise that analysts say will test how the new government balances competing pressures over public spending and revenue.
Limited fiscal room
Experts have warned that Burnham and Chancellor John Healey will have little room to manoeuvre in their first Budget. Those assessments suggest constraints on both revenue-raising options and the scope for new spending commitments, although ministers have yet to set out detailed plans.
Political implications
The refusal to rule out tax rises is likely to sharpen scrutiny from opposition parties and interest groups as the Budget timetable approaches. It also signals that the government is weighing a wide range of fiscal measures as it prepares to present its economic programme to parliament and the public.
Ministers have so far given few specifics about the autumn package. The coming weeks are expected to see more detailed statements and consultations as the administration finalises its approach to taxation and public expenditure for the year ahead.