Burnham moves one step closer to Labour leadership challenge
Voters react as Andy Burnham to stand in Makerfield by-election
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has been cleared by Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to stand in the upcoming Makerfield by-election, following Josh Simons’ decision to step down as MP.
This move is widely interpreted as a significant step towards Mr Burnham potentially challenging Sir Keir Starmer for the leadership of the Labour Party, should he successfully return to Westminster.
The Makerfield by-election is anticipated to be a challenging contest for Labour, with strong competition expected from Reform UK, especially given the party’s recent polling struggles in the constituency.
Separately, Wes Streeting dramatically resigned from his ministerial role, with allies confirming he intends to mount a leadership challenge when a contest arises, further intensifying speculation about Labour’s future leadership.
The Usdaw union has publicly backed Mr Burnham’s bid for the Makerfield candidacy, and the by-election, along with a potential mayoral election, which could incur public costs estimated at about £5 million.
