While Andy Burnham is overseas, his de-facto deputy Louise Haigh, the First Secretary of State and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, will be the most senior minister in Westminster.

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.