Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is poised to make a significant political comeback as he has officially been cleared to run for Labour’s candidacy in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. This development, sanctioned by Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC), marks a pivotal moment for Burnham, who previously faced setbacks in his bid to enter the House of Commons.
A New Opportunity for Burnham
The vacancy in the Makerfield constituency arose when Labour MP Josh Simons announced his resignation, effectively paving the way for Burnham’s return to Westminster. Should he secure the nomination and win the by-election, speculation mounts that he may position himself as a challenger to Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership. Starmer, currently under pressure following disappointing election results, continues to resist calls for his resignation amid swirling leadership speculation.
The by-election is tentatively scheduled for 18 June, a date that could set the stage for a dramatic reshaping of Labour’s leadership landscape. Burnham, known as the “King of the North,” expressed his desire to replicate the successful changes he implemented in Greater Manchester across the UK. He stated, “I will not take a single vote for granted,” highlighting his commitment to engaging with constituents.
The Context of Leadership Turmoil
The political climate within Labour has been tumultuous, with nearly 90 MPs urging Starmer to step down following recent electoral setbacks. Five ministers have resigned, but any leadership challenge requires the backing of at least 81 Labour MPs. This intricate web of party politics means that Burnham’s candidacy is loaded with implications for Labour’s future direction.
Wes Streeting, the former health secretary, has also emerged as a potential leadership contender following his resignation, fuelling further speculation about internal party dynamics. While he has not declared his candidacy, Streeting has garnered support and emphasised the need for a thorough discussion on Labour’s next steps. He welcomed Burnham’s return to Parliament, stating, “We need our best players on the pitch,” indicating that any leadership race could be competitive.
A Competitive By-Election Ahead
Historically, Makerfield has been a stronghold for Labour, but in recent times, it has shown signs of leaning towards Reform UK, adding a layer of complexity to Burnham’s campaign. The upcoming selection process for the Labour candidate will close on 18 May, with a meeting scheduled for 21 May to determine the candidate. Burnham’s ability to secure victory in this by-election will be crucial, not only for his political aspirations but also for the party’s strategy moving forward.
Other political figures are weighing in on the contest. Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has hinted at her own potential candidacy but has refrained from formally triggering a leadership race. In contrast, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has critiqued Burnham, suggesting he wants to return to higher office without having served in Parliament for a decade. Meanwhile, Richard Tice of Reform UK has indicated that his party will mobilise all resources to secure a significant victory in Makerfield.
Internal Divisions and Public Sentiment
The mood within Labour is mixed. While some MPs express frustration over Burnham’s ambitions—Labour MP Neil Coyle has openly called for the NEC to reject Burnham’s candidacy—others, including Olivia Blake, have praised his contributions in Manchester, arguing he could reinvigorate Labour’s appeal nationally.
Home Office Minister Mike Tapp also acknowledged the recent leadership unrest, apologising to the public for the spectacle of speculation and unrest. He stressed the need for the party to focus on governance rather than internal struggles, suggesting a desire for stability amidst uncertainty.
Why it Matters
The Makerfield by-election is not merely a contest for a parliamentary seat; it represents a critical juncture for the Labour Party and its leadership. With Andy Burnham’s potential return to Westminster, the dynamics of Labour’s future could shift dramatically. The outcome of this race could either bolster Starmer’s position or ignite a leadership contest that reshapes the party in profound ways. As political tensions rise, all eyes will be on Makerfield to see if Burnham can navigate the challenging waters ahead and what it means for Labour’s direction as a whole.
