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Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has received approval to pursue the Labour candidacy in an important by-election, a move that could see him return to Westminster politics. The Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has lifted the restrictions that previously barred him from standing in a by-election earlier this year, specifically one that was due to take place in January.
A Potential Path Back to Westminster
The Makerfield constituency, located in the north-west of England, became vacant following the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, who stepped down to facilitate Burnham’s candidacy. If Burnham secures selection and wins the by-election, he is anticipated to position himself as a potential successor to Sir Keir Starmer, who currently faces mounting pressure to resign following disappointing election results for the party.
The by-election is tentatively scheduled for 18 June, as confirmed by various sources. On the day of the announcement, Prime Minister Starmer was in a police control centre in London, avoiding media inquiries. His ally, Housing Secretary Steve Reed, acknowledged the tumultuous week for the government and urged party members to take a moment to reflect before refocusing on their responsibilities.
Context of Leadership Challenges
Burnham’s bid to return to Parliament comes amid increasing calls for leadership change within Labour. Nearly 90 MPs have expressed their desire for Starmer to resign, and five ministers have left their posts. However, a formal leadership challenge cannot materialise until a contender garners the support of at least 81 Labour MPs.
Under existing party regulations, Burnham must first be elected as an MP before he can engage in any leadership contest. In announcing his intentions for Makerfield, he emphasised his goal of extending the successful policies implemented in Greater Manchester to a national level. “I want to make politics work properly for people,” he remarked, underscoring his commitment to the constituency.
The Road Ahead for Makerfield
Applications for the Labour candidacy will close on 18 May, with a selection meeting scheduled for 21 May. Historically, Makerfield has been a Labour stronghold; however, recent trends indicate a shift towards Reform UK, which could pose a significant challenge for Burnham if he is selected.
Amidst the leadership speculation, other potential contenders have emerged. Wes Streeting, who recently resigned as health secretary, has not ruled out a leadership bid and has gained the support needed to challenge Starmer. He welcomed Burnham’s return to Parliament, suggesting that strong figures should be at the forefront of Labour’s strategy.
Angela Rayner, the former Deputy Prime Minister, has also hinted at a possible run but has stated that she will not initiate a leadership race. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch commented on Burnham’s aspirations, questioning his readiness given his absence from Parliament for nearly a decade.
Competing Influences
The by-election is expected to draw considerable attention from various parties, with Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice vowing to mobilise all resources for a significant victory. The Green Party, buoyed by recent successes in local elections, expresses confidence in their ability to challenge both Labour and Reform UK.
As internal tensions continue to simmer within Labour, Home Office Minister Mike Tapp offered an apology on behalf of the government regarding the recent leadership turmoil, expressing a desire to shift focus back to governance. Labour MP Neil Coyle voiced strong opposition to Burnham’s candidacy, urging the NEC to resist what he termed the “ego of one man.” Conversely, MP Olivia Blake defended Burnham, highlighting his accomplishments in Manchester and asserting that he could bring essential clarity to the party’s direction.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s potential return to Westminster could reshape the Labour Party’s future and influence the broader political landscape in the UK. With ongoing leadership challenges and a shifting electorate, this by-election will not only test Burnham’s political mettle but could also determine the trajectory of Labour’s strategies moving forward. As party dynamics evolve, the implications of this contest will resonate far beyond the immediate electoral outcome, possibly altering the balance of power within the party and affecting the public’s perception of Labour in the run-up to the next general election.
