The 39-year-old, who is Mr Burnham's de facto deputy in her role as First Secretary of State, was photographed going about her duties in Whitehall in the Prime Minister's absence.

Mr Burnham is taking a break from his day-to-day duties for a long-planned family holiday and is not expected to appear publicly this week.

Mr Burnham, who only entered office on 20 July, is taking a break from his day-to-day duties to travel abroad with his family for a long-planned trip.