Andy Burnham's dad Roy, who suffered from Alzheimer's, has died

Andy Burnham's father, whose Alzheimer's meant he did not know his son was prime minister, has died.

Roy Burnham, a former telephone engineer in his mid-eighties, had been living in a care home.

Downing Street said the prime minister has cancelled his engagements for Monday and Tuesday.

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In an interview with The Times on the eve of taking office in July, Mr Burnham revealed the extent of his father's illness.

Explaining that his dad was unaware of what was happening, Mr Burnham said: "That's a sadness because he would be [proud].

"The way I look at it, it's his achievement as well. A whole family achievement although he doesn't know it."

The PM's experience is one of the driving factors in his plan to reform the social care system.

In a major speech last month, he promised to help "my dad and the millions like him" faced with the unfairness of the current system.

'Losing your father is profoundly painful'

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch is among the politicians who have offered condolences.

"No matter how old you are, or how much you try to prepare, losing your father is a profoundly painful experience," she said.

"A part of your life that has always been there is suddenly gone forever and it can feel as though a part of you won't ever be the same again."

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Communities Secretary Angela Rayner said: "My thoughts are with Andy and his family at this terribly difficult - and sad time."

In this House of Commons, Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: "I am sure the whole House will want to send our best wishes to him and his family at this sad time."

Michelle Dyson, CEO at the Alzheimer's Society, sent her "heartfelt condolences" in a statement issued on Monday afternoon.

"The loss of a parent leaves an immeasurable gap in our lives," it read.

"While every family's experience is unique, many of us understand the long and often challenging journey that Alzheimer's disease can bring, not only for the person living with the condition but for those who love them."

(c) Sky News 2026: Andy Burnham's dad Roy, who suffered from Alzheimer's, has died