Makerfield

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has definitively ruled out calling an early general election, stating that voters do not want to return to the polls just two years after the last election. In an interview with the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg, Burnham dismissed mounting speculation at Westminster that he might call a snap election to capitalize on Labour's improved poll ratings and secure his own five-year mandate. Burnham, who became Prime Minister just a week ago after returning to Parliament as MP for Makerfield, emphasized that 20 million people voted for a manifesto and that he intends to honor it within the framework of parliamentary democracy. He noted that he has already faced voters in his constituency during a by-election. Reform UK, whose poll lead has recently diminished, had been among the most vocal proponents of a fresh election. Burnham stressed that his priority is to focus on getting the country back on track rather than calling an early vote, which is not required until 2029.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 05:33 AM UTC

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has definitively ruled out calling an early general election, stating that voters do not want to return to the polls just two years after the last election. Speculation had been mounting at Westminster that Burnham, who became Prime Minister barely a month after returning to Parliament as MP for Makerfield, might call a snap election to capitalize on a bounce in Labour's polls and secure his own five-year mandate. Reform UK, whose poll lead has recently been slashed, had been leading calls for a fresh election. In an interview with the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg, Burnham emphasized that 20 million people voted for a manifesto in a parliamentary democracy, and he intends to honor that mandate. He stated his priority is to focus on getting the country working again, rather than calling an early election.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 05:33 AM UTC

Wealthy Brits are bracing for major tax reforms under new UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who has refused to rule out a wealth tax and signaled changes to stamp duty, capital gains tax, and income tax thresholds. While Burnham pledged not to raise income tax, VAT, or employee national insurance, he may increase the personal allowance while freezing higher-rate thresholds, dragging more middle-class 'HENRYs' (High Earners, Not Rich Yet) into higher tax bands. Burnham has also suggested hiking the top income tax rate from 45% to 50%, a move previously introduced by Gordon Brown in 2010. Economists warn this could trigger a wealth exodus similar to that following the abolition of the non-dom tax regime. Additionally, Burnham's plans to nationalize heavily indebted Thames Water could further increase the tax burden on higher earners. Industry figures urge clear communication of tax reforms in the Autumn Budget to avoid damaging uncertainty.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:45 PM UTC

This opinion article argues that Labour should rediscover the political value of social clubs, using Andy Burnham's successful Makerfield by-election campaign as a case study. The campaign was run from Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Centre, a social club that remained open to regulars, forcing politicians to interact naturally with voters. The author contends that social clubs offer trusted, independent spaces where sustained political relationships can be built, unlike transactional doorstep canvassing. The piece warns Labour against treating social clubs merely as campaign props, noting their historical role in the party's formation. It suggests that if Labour pursues structural reforms under a future Burnham premiership, social clubs could serve as countervailing forces to defend change in communities across the country.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:00 AM UTC

This analysis piece from LabourList argues that Andy Burnham's successful Makerfield by-election campaign, run from Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Centre, demonstrates the enduring political value of social clubs. The article contends that using the club as a campaign base allowed politicians to interact authentically with voters, building trust that conventional canvassing lacks. It warns Labour against treating social clubs merely as campaign props, urging the party to rediscover their historical role as spaces for political education, organizing, and sustained community connection. The author suggests that such institutions could help Labour build grassroots support for transformative policies like public ownership and constitutional reform, countering political distrust and opposition to structural change.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:00 AM UTC

This opinion piece analyzes Andy Burnham's successful Makerfield by-election campaign, which was run from Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Centre, a local social club. The author argues that using the club as a campaign base allowed politicians to interact authentically with voters, building trust and credibility. The article contends that Labour should rediscover the political potential of social clubs, which historically were central to the party's formation. It warns against treating them merely as campaign props and suggests they can help reconnect formal politics with everyday life, sustain public support for structural reforms like public ownership and land value tax, and counter political distrust. The piece calls for sustained community engagement beyond election cycles.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:00 AM UTC

Andy Burnham has become UK Prime Minister after a rapid rise from Greater Manchester mayor to Labour leader and PM within weeks. He won a by-election in Makerfield, triggering Keir Starmer's resignation. Burnham, known as 'King of the North', was nominated by over 320 Labour MPs unopposed. His leadership marks a return of Blairite figures like James Purnell as chief of staff, with David Miliband rumored for foreign secretary and Ed Miliband for chancellor. The article analyzes Burnham's political positioning, his personal popularity against Nigel Farage's Reform party, and what his premiership means for UK-EU relations, suggesting a potential rapprochement.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:27 AM UTC

Andy Burnham has become UK Prime Minister after a rapid rise from Greater Manchester mayor to Labour leader and PM. He won a by-election in Makerfield by a landslide, prompting Keir Starmer's resignation. Burnham was then nominated Labour leader by over 320 MPs unopposed. His political career includes serving as culture and health secretary under Blair and Brown, and later as mayor of Greater Manchester, where he cultivated an 'outsider' image. Burnham's personal popularity is seen as Labour's best chance against Nigel Farage's Reform party. He has appointed James Purnell as chief of staff, and there are rumors David Miliband may return as foreign secretary and Ed Miliband as chancellor, signaling a potential shift toward closer EU relations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:27 AM UTC

Andy Burnham has become UK Prime Minister after a rapid political ascent from Greater Manchester mayor to Labour leader and PM. He won a by-election in Makerfield by a landslide, prompting Keir Starmer's resignation. Burnham was then nominated Labour leader unopposed by over 320 MPs. His rise is attributed to being in the right place at the right time, his personal popularity, and Labour's poor polling against Reform UK. Burnham's political positioning remains somewhat unclear, described by opponents as 'a black T-shirt and eyelashes.' He is assembling a team of Blairite figures including James Purnell as chief of staff, with rumors of David Miliband returning as foreign secretary and Ed Miliband as chancellor. This signals a potential shift toward closer UK-EU relations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:27 AM UTC

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is seeking Labour Party approval to contest the Makerfield by-election, a strategic move to return to Parliament and potentially challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the party leadership. Endorsed by Wes Streeting, Burnham’s bid faces significant hurdles from the surging Reform UK party in this traditionally safe Labour seat. The outcome is viewed as a critical test of Labour’s resilience and internal unity, with potential implications for the UK’s political landscape and market stability depending on whether Burnham succeeds or fails in this high-stakes gamble.

121 reports · 27 sources · Updated Jun 23, 07:39 AM UTC

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confronts a severe leadership crisis following disastrous local election results, where Labour lost over 1,400 council seats. More than 70 Labour MPs and senior cabinet ministers have publicly demanded his resignation or an orderly transition timeline. Despite Starmer’s refusal to step down, citing risks of political chaos, internal dissent is escalating into factional conflict over potential successors like Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner. This turmoil highlights deep fractures within the governing party and raises significant concerns about national political stability and future electoral viability.

77 reports · 41 sources · Updated May 18, 09:55 AM UTC

Jonathan Freedland argues that the Labour Party is failing to meet its historic responsibility due to significant political ineptitude among its leadership. Following severe electoral losses in England, Scotland, and Wales on May 7, Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered a speech intended to chart a new course but was criticized for offering only incremental changes, such as a youth scheme, rather than bold solutions like rejoining the EU single market. This perceived weakness has triggered internal unrest. Health Secretary Wes Streeting attempted to challenge Starmer’s leadership but failed to secure the necessary support from 81 MPs, making his move appear premature and damaging to his own standing. Meanwhile, Andy Burnham is positioning himself as a potential successor by contesting a byelection in Makerfield, a constituency where Reform UK recently achieved significant victories. Freedland warns that if Labour continues to present timid leadership and fails to produce a Prime Minister worthy of the title, the likely outcome will be Nigel Farage and Reform UK taking power, emphasizing the urgent need for Labour to regain national trust through decisive action.

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This opinion piece by Marina Hyde critiques the current state of UK politics, describing it as a chaotic struggle resembling Dante's Inferno. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's repeated warnings about a 'battle for the soul of the nation' are mocked, particularly as the conflict centers on a byelection in Makerfield. Local MP Josh Simons has resigned to facilitate Andy Burnham's potential return to Parliament, creating a complex scenario where voters opposed to Starmer might vote Labour to support Burnham, while others face difficult strategic choices. The article highlights the arcane nature of Labour party procedures and the potential for internal strife if Burnham fails, which could benefit Nigel Farage and the Reform party. Additionally, the piece notes financial market anxiety regarding political instability, citing MP Paula Barker's dismissive attitude toward bond market concerns. The narrative underscores public weariness and confusion, suggesting that the political class's infighting drives citizens toward tribalism or disengagement, making the week feel interminable and dystopian.

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UK long-term government borrowing costs have surged to their highest level in 28 years, driven by growing market anxiety over political instability and a potential Labour leadership challenge from Andy Burnham. The yield on 30-year UK government bonds, or gilts, rose by 16 basis points to 5.821%, while 10-year gilt yields climbed above 5%. This increase signifies higher borrowing costs for the government and reflects investor fears that a new, potentially left-leaning leadership could increase public spending. Concurrently, the British pound is tracking toward its worst weekly performance since 2024, dropping against the US dollar. The financial turmoil is compounded by external geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing Iran war and soaring oil prices, which have negatively impacted the FTSE 100 index. Analysts suggest that the prospect of political infighting and a cumbersome leadership race undermines the stability required to attract investment. With former health secretary Wes Streeting also linked to leadership speculation and Angela Rayner cleared of tax wrongdoing, the political landscape remains volatile, further exacerbating concerns about the UK’s economic outlook and inflation pressures.

1 reports · 1 sources

Former UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has publicly endorsed Andy Burnham as Labour’s candidate for the upcoming Makerfield by-election, describing him as the party's best chance of victory in a challenging contest. This support comes after current MP Josh Simons announced his resignation to facilitate Burnham’s return to Parliament. Burnham, currently the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is widely expected to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership if he successfully secures a seat. Despite backing a potential rival, Streeting’s allies confirmed he remains a candidate for the leadership himself. The by-election is anticipated to be highly competitive, with Reform UK posing a significant threat following recent polling shifts and local election results in the constituency. Burnham must still obtain permission from Labour’s National Executive Committee to stand, a process complicated by the potential need for a subsequent mayoral by-election in Greater Manchester, which would incur substantial costs. While Prime Minister Starmer is not expected to block Burnham’s bid this time, the decision rests with the NEC. The situation highlights internal dynamics within the Labour Party amid declining poll numbers and rising opposition from Reform UK.

1 reports · 1 sources

Financial markets in the United Kingdom experienced significant volatility, with the British pound slumping and government bond yields rising, amid growing fears of a leadership challenge within the Labour Party. Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is set to contest a by-election in Makerfield, a strategic move that strengthens his bid to replace Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Investors are increasingly concerned that a potential Burnham-led government would adopt left-leaning policies, including substantial additional borrowing for housing and infrastructure, thereby challenging the country's fiscal discipline. This shift has introduced an elevated political risk premium to UK assets. The market reaction follows poor performance by the ruling Labour Party in recent local elections and critical comments from US President Donald Trump regarding Starmer's handling of immigration and energy. Polling data and prediction markets currently favor Burnham over Starmer, intensifying uncertainty. Analysts warn that worsening fiscal credibility and the prospect of higher spending could further depress sterling and increase gilt yields, marking a decisive potential shift in the UK's economic and political landscape.

1 reports · 1 sources

The UK Labour Party has emerged from a period of intense internal division and despair following the announcement that Andy Burnham has secured a parliamentary seat to contest. This development resolves a significant leadership deadlock, offering a potential path forward for the party. Burnham intends to stand in Makerfield, a constituency currently facing strong challenges from the Reform party, framing the upcoming by-election as a 'proof of concept' for his leadership capabilities. By positioning himself as an outsider and change candidate, Burnham aims to demonstrate that Labour can regain electoral viability under his guidance. The move has generated relief and excitement among party members, including supporters of rival Wes Streeting, who feared an illegitimate contest without Burnham. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer finds his influence waning, described as a 'lame duck' by allies who are increasingly concerned about his refusal to set a departure timetable. While Starmer and his loyalists view a leadership change as irresponsible amidst economic instability, they appear unable to block Burnham's return. The outcome of the Makerfield by-election is now seen as critical, with a potential loss for Burnham risking a return to political stasis and uncertainty for Labour's future direction.

1 reports · 1 sources

A group of London Labour MPs, including Dawn Butler and Liam Conlon, have expressed strong support for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s attempt to return to the House of Commons. Burnham is seeking permission from Labour’s National Executive Committee to stand as the party’s candidate in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. This opportunity arises after current MP Josh Simons announced his resignation to facilitate Burnham’s return. Supporters argue that Labour needs its 'best players on the pitch' to strengthen the party and potentially challenge Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for leadership. However, the path back to Parliament faces significant challenges, particularly from Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, which has vowed to contest the seat aggressively. Recent by-election results in Runcorn & Helsby and Gordon & Denton indicate a shrinking Labour majority, making the Makerfield seat, previously held with a modest margin, highly vulnerable. While previous attempts to block Burnham’s comeback failed, current momentum among MPs suggests a shift in internal party dynamics, positioning this by-election as a critical test for Labour’s unity and electoral strategy against rising opposition forces.

1 reports · 1 sources

Senior Labour figures, including Deputy Leader Lucy Powell and former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, have publicly endorsed Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s bid to return to Parliament through the upcoming Makerfield byelection. Streeting described Burnham as one of Labour’s best players and the party's strongest candidate to win the seat, emphasizing that electoral success must take precedence over internal factional interests. Powell reinforced this stance at a Fire Brigades Union conference, urging the party to unite against the rising threat of Nigel Farage and the far-right. She warned that Labour risks further decline if it fails to embrace diverse voices and end internal divisions. The byelection was triggered by the resignation of the local Labour MP. While Burnham’s potential return is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the party, it has also sparked speculation about a future leadership challenge against Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Concurrently, the government faces security challenges with bans on foreign far-right activists ahead of a major rally in London, highlighting the broader political tensions surrounding national unity and extremism.

1 reports · 1 sources

Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting has publicly endorsed Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s bid to contest the upcoming Makerfield by-election, describing him as Labour’s best chance of winning a difficult contest. Burnham seeks permission from Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to stand after current MP Josh Simons announced his resignation to facilitate the mayor's return to Parliament. If successful, Burnham is widely expected to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership. The endorsement comes amid concerns over Labour’s declining polling numbers and a surge in support for Reform UK, which recently swept local wards in the constituency. While Streeting argues that fielding top talent should override factional interests, Cabinet minister Steve Reed has warned against internal leadership challenges. The potential candidacy carries significant financial implications, with a Makerfield by-election costing up to £226,000 and a subsequent Greater Manchester mayoral by-election potentially costing millions. The NEC is scheduled to decide on Burnham’s application next week, with reports suggesting Prime Minister Starmer will not block the attempt this time.

1 reports · 1 sources

Former UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has publicly endorsed Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s bid to contest the upcoming Makerfield by-election. This support comes as Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) prepares to decide on Burnham’s candidacy, following the announcement that current MP Josh Simons will resign to facilitate the mayor’s return to Parliament. Streeting described the upcoming contest as tough, emphasizing that Labour needs its best candidates on the field to secure victory. He argued that the priority should be winning the seat rather than maintaining factional advantages or protecting individual positions. Burnham is widely viewed as a potential challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership if he successfully returns to the House of Commons. The endorsement highlights internal party dynamics and strategic considerations within the Labour Party as it seeks to maintain its parliamentary majority. Streeting’s tweet underscored the importance of electoral success over internal politics, marking a significant moment in the lead-up to the by-election decision.

1 reports · 1 sources

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s attempt to return to Parliament as a Labour MP has triggered significant volatility in UK financial markets. Following the announcement that Makerfield MP Josh Simons would resign to facilitate Burnham’s candidacy, gilt yields surged to 28-year highs, with 30-year yields reaching levels not seen since 1998. Simultaneously, the pound sterling fell against major currencies, including the US dollar, euro, and yen. Investors reacted negatively to Burnham’s potential leadership bid due to his criticism of the current Labour government’s fiscal policies and his proposals to nationalize key utilities like water and energy. Although Burnham suggested he would maintain existing fiscal rules with exceptions for defense spending, market participants remain concerned about his economic agenda. This move marks the first step in Burnham’s long path to potentially challenging Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership and becoming Prime Minister. He still faces several hurdles, including approval from the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee, winning the subsequent by-election, and securing support from MPs and union members. The market reaction highlights the sensitivity of UK borrowing costs to political uncertainty and fiscal policy shifts.

1 reports · 1 sources

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a significant leadership challenge following dire election results, with Labour colleagues increasingly critical of his performance. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has initiated a strategic move to return to Parliament by contesting a by-election in Makerfield, triggered by the resignation of MP Josh Simons. If successful, this victory would provide Burnham with the parliamentary seat necessary to formally challenge Starmer for the Labour leadership. The Labour Party's National Executive Committee is expected to meet soon to determine if Burnham will be permitted to run. However, the path is fraught with difficulty, as Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has pledged intense campaigning efforts in Makerfield, where his party holds strong local polling support. The political instability has already impacted financial markets, causing the British pound to drop as traders anticipate potential changes in government leadership and a shift toward more interventionist economic policies under a possible Burnham administration. This developing situation highlights the internal fractures within the Labour Party and the volatile political landscape in the United Kingdom.

1 reports · 1 sources

UK government bond yields rose significantly as Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Manchester and a prominent rival to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, prepared to run for Parliament. This move is a necessary step for Burnham to potentially challenge Starmer for the Labour Party leadership. The 10-year gilt yield jumped 11 basis points to 5.10%, reflecting market concerns that a successful challenge could shift Labour’s policy direction to the left. Although Labour rules typically prohibit sitting mayors from standing for Parliament, sources indicate the National Executive Committee is likely to grant Burnham a waiver. The opportunity arose after MP Josh Simons stepped aside in the Makerfield constituency to support Burnham. Despite facing a tough electoral battle against Reform UK in the area, Burnham argues that national-level change is needed to improve affordability. His high approval ratings and ambition have intensified pressure on Starmer, causing volatility in financial markets alongside broader global sell-offs driven by inflation fears and rising oil prices.

1 reports · 1 sources

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is confronting a severe political crisis following catastrophic local election results in England, Wales, and Scotland. The turmoil intensified when Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned, delivering a scathing critique of the government's lack of vision and direction. In total, nearly 100 Labour MPs, including four ministers and several aides, have withdrawn support or resigned, urging Starmer to establish a departure timetable. Labour-affiliated unions have also called for his resignation. Despite the widespread dissent, Starmer has refused to step down, challenging his cabinet to unite or remain silent. Under Labour Party rules, a leadership challenge requires the backing of 20% of MPs (81 members), a threshold no current contender has yet met. Potential successors such as Andy Burnham, Angela Rayner, Ed Miliband, and Yvette Cooper are being speculated upon, though internal divisions persist regarding who should take over. Critics warn that retaining Starmer could hand the next general election to Reform UK and Nigel Farage. The situation remains volatile as Westminster awaits potential challengers who can secure sufficient parliamentary support to trigger a leadership contest.

1 reports · 1 sources

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has announced his intention to seek permission from the Labour Party's National Executive Committee to stand as the candidate in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. This move follows the resignation of current MP Josh Simons, who stepped down to facilitate Burnham's return to the House of Commons. Although Burnham stated he aims to provide stability to Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the by-election, his potential return to Parliament is widely viewed as a precursor to a leadership challenge against Starmer. The announcement intensifies an ongoing internal crisis within the Labour Party, described as a civil war, exacerbated by the recent resignation of Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Streeting criticized Starmer's leadership as lacking vision and direction, urging him to allow a competitive field of candidates to replace him. With nearly 100 Labour MPs reportedly calling for Starmer's resignation, while an equal number support him, the party faces a significant divide. Burnham's candidacy positions him as a strong contender for the premiership if a leadership contest is triggered, highlighting the deepening political instability facing the current government.

1 reports · 1 sources

A recent survey by Conservative Home reveals that Conservative Party members anticipate Andy Burnham will lead the Labour Party into the next general election, with over 30% expecting his leadership compared to roughly 20% for Keir Starmer. However, when asked about preference, respondents significantly favored Starmer remaining as Labour leader, viewing him as a weaker opponent than potential rivals like Burnham or Wes Streeting. The survey, conducted amidst internal Labour turmoil and resignations, also showed overwhelming support (93%) for Kemi Badenoch to remain as Conservative leader despite recent electoral setbacks. Analysts suggest Tories prefer Starmer due to his perceived vulnerabilities in parliamentary performance and policy delivery. The article highlights the strategic calculations within the Conservative base, noting that while Burnham is seen as the likely successor, his potential leadership is viewed as a greater political threat. The piece further discusses the lack of clear alternative visions from Labour contenders and emphasizes Badenoch’s focus on rehabilitating the Conservative brand through systemic government reform.

1 reports · 1 sources

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has pledged to dedicate maximum resources to opposing Andy Burnham in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. This contest arises after current MP Josh Simons resigned to facilitate Burnham’s return to the House of Commons, a strategic move intended to launch a challenge against Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership. Although Simons previously held the seat with a majority of over 5,000 votes, Makerfield is considered a key target for Reform UK in the North West. The political landscape is further destabilized by recent resignations within the Labour government, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, and mounting pressure on Starmer following poor local election results. Meanwhile, former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has been cleared of deliberate wrongdoing in her tax affairs, potentially positioning her for a leadership bid. Sources indicate that Starmer will not block Burnham’s candidacy, setting the stage for a significant internal Labour conflict and a high-stakes parliamentary battle against Farage’s Reform UK.

1 reports · 1 sources

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has announced his intention to return to Westminster, signaling a potential challenge to Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership. This move follows the decision by Labour MP Josh Simons to stand down in the Makerfield constituency, creating a vacancy for Burnham to contest in a forthcoming by-election. Simons, a former Starmer loyalist, cited the need for significant political change as his reason for stepping aside. The announcement comes amidst intense pressure on Starmer following poor local election results and the resignation of Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who did not immediately launch a leadership bid but urged the Prime Minister to allow a competitive field of candidates. While the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee must still approve Burnham’s candidacy, sources indicate Starmer will not block him. With nearly 90 MPs publicly calling for Starmer’s resignation, the party faces internal fragmentation as figures like Angela Rayner and Ed Miliband are also tipped as potential successors. Burnham emphasized the need for stability during the by-election process, suggesting any formal leadership contest should wait until he secures a parliamentary seat.

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Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has confirmed his intention to stand in the upcoming Makerfield by-election, aiming to return to Parliament following the resignation of current MP Josh Simons. Simons stepped down to facilitate Burnham’s candidacy, stating the country needs the change Burnham can drive. The by-election is triggered just two years after the 2024 general election, occurring amidst significant turmoil within the Labour Party. Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a leadership crisis after disastrous local election results, where Labour lost over 1,400 council seats and all councillors in Wigan. Burnham must first secure approval from Labour’s National Executive Committee, which previously blocked his bid in Gorton and Denton but is not expected to do so again. If approved, the writ will be moved, scheduling the vote for late June, likely on June 18 or 25. The contest poses a serious challenge for Labour, with Reform UK emerging as a strong competitor after winning 24 of 25 seats in recent Wigan local elections. Nigel Farage has vowed to heavily support the Reform UK campaign, highlighting the political instability and shifting voter allegiance facing the Labour Party.

1 reports · 1 sources