LONDON — Prime Minister Andy Burnham has signalled that the government could tighten conditions attached to some benefit claims, as his administration begins a major review of welfare spending and employment support.

In his first major broadcast interview since entering Downing Street, Burnham said Britain needs to “get really serious” about reducing the welfare bill, while stressing that people who genuinely need support should continue to receive help.

The Prime Minister also placed social care reform at the centre of his political agenda, warning that the NHS faces growing pressure when people who need long-term care cannot access appropriate services outside hospitals. He promised “substantial change” but did not give a specific timetable for reforms.

The welfare debate could become one of the most politically sensitive challenges for the new government. Ministers face pressure to reduce spending while ensuring that changes do not disproportionately affect people with disabilities or serious health conditions.

Burnham's approach is expected to combine stricter expectations for some claimants with greater support designed to help people return to employment. The government now faces the difficult task of turning the Prime Minister's proposals into detailed policy while balancing public finances, NHS capacity and Labour's commitments to vulnerable households.