Andy Burnham has suspended his official diary for the coming two days following the death of his father, Roy.
The Prime Minister’s office confirmed that engagements scheduled for Monday and Tuesday (September 14 and 15) have been cancelled.
Roy Burnham passed away at the age of 86 after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
The family has requested privacy during this difficult period.
In comments made during an interview with The Times prior to taking up residence in Downing Street in July, the Prime Minister discussed his father’s condition.
He expressed sorrow that his father’s illness meant he would remain unaware of his son’s political advancement.
He stated that this represented a source of deep regret as his father would have taken pride in such achievements.
The Prime Minister also reflected on how the experience of watching his father navigate the care system had influenced his political priorities.
He indicated his intention to tackle the reform of adult social care services, describing the current arrangement in England as failing to serve anyone’s interests adequately.
The improvement of social care was identified as a significant concern for citizens across the country.
Messages of sympathy began appearing on social media platforms following the announcement.
Commentators from various political backgrounds offered their condolences to the Prime Minister and his relatives.
One individual wrote that despite differing political opinions, the news represented devastating information.
Another expressed the view that the impact of dementia on families deserved recognition, while additional tributes extended sympathies to all those affected by the loss.