Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said that reforming adult social care is essential to the long-term future of the NHS, arguing that the health service will become overwhelmed if successive governments fail to address weaknesses in the care system.

In his first major interview since taking office, Burnham said he wanted to deliver substantial changes before leaving office, although he declined to commit to completing a new system before the next general election.

Instead, he confirmed that he intends to speed up the work of the independent Casey Commission, which is reviewing options for social care reform, bringing forward its timetable where possible.Burnham argued that many people currently end up in hospital because adequate social care is unavailable, placing additional strain on NHS services.

He also discussed welfare policy, suggesting that eligibility conditions for certain benefits could become stricter, with greater emphasis on helping people who are capable of working into employment through improved support and conditional requirements.

However, he stressed that many benefit claimants, particularly younger people, had been failed by existing support systems and should not simply be blamed for their circumstances.

The interview also covered wider political issues, including Burnham's willingness to challenge US President Donald Trump when British national interests require it.

On a lighter note, he joked that his dog, Axel, would remain in the north of England rather than move into Downing Street because the pet would not get along with Larry the Cat.

Burnham is expected to make a speech on adult social care later in the week, outlining the government's next steps without yet announcing a complete replacement for the current system.