Burnham’s big vision – but what about family and church?

That was a big speech. Big in terms of rhetoric. Big in terms of delivery. Big in terms of diagnosis. This was Andy Burnham speaking to the Labour Party faithful a few days ago and setting a direction of travel for the party and the government.

In so far as he spoke to voters outside the hall, it was a pitch to left-leaning ones to "come on board" with Labour.

Stylistically, it was impressive as he roamed the stage, apparently speaking without notes (although he did look at the screens at the foot of the stage which clearly contained his script or outline). He didn’t wear a tie, which was obviously a very deliberate style choice. He appeared at ease with himself and determined to dispel the idea that he’s all style and no substance.