Andy Burnham, the current Mayor of Greater Manchester, has asserted his intention to avoid reigniting the Brexit debate as he prepares for a potential bid against Sir Keir Starmer for the leadership of the Labour Party. Addressing the Labour conference in Leeds, Burnham acknowledged the negative repercussions of Brexit but stressed the necessity of moving beyond divisive arguments, insisting that the UK must respect the outcome of the 2016 referendum.
Burnham’s Position on Brexit
In stark contrast to some voices within his party, Burnham clarified that he is not advocating for the UK to rejoin the European Union. “My view is that Brexit has been damaging, but I also believe the last thing we should do right now is re-run those arguments,” he stated. This declaration comes in the wake of his previous comments from last September, where he expressed a desire to see the UK return to the EU within his lifetime.
As Burnham positions himself ahead of the Makerfield by-election, his stance could be pivotal. The constituency, which strongly backed Brexit in the 2016 referendum, presents a significant challenge for any Labour candidate who wishes to appeal to pro-Brexit voters. Burnham has already secured clearance to stand as Labour’s candidate following the resignation of current MP Josh Simons, although he still requires the support of the local party.
Leadership Contest Dynamics
Brexit is likely to be a contentious topic in any future leadership challenge, particularly after former Health Secretary Wes Streeting branded the decision to leave the EU as a “catastrophic mistake.” Streeting, who has confirmed his candidacy for the leadership, called for a “new special relationship” with the EU, emphasising that the greatest economic opportunities lie with closer ties to the bloc.
Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer has remained firm in his commitment to the party’s manifesto, which promises no return to the single market, customs union, or freedom of movement. His reluctance to set a timeline for his departure from leadership, despite the increasing pressure from within his ranks, suggests a turbulent period ahead for the party.
Burnham’s Vision for Labour
Beyond Brexit, Burnham is advocating for a fundamental transformation within Labour, stating that a vote for him represents a vote for change. He highlighted the need to redistribute resources from “a bloated national state” to “a malnourished local one,” calling for “serious rewiring” of governance structures. “We have hollowed out councils and created an unaccountable state,” he argued, underscoring the urgent need for reform to regain public trust.
His comments reflect a growing sentiment within the party that Labour’s offerings have not resonated enough with voters, particularly in the northern constituencies that feel neglected. Burnham’s vision seeks to re-establish Labour’s connection with these communities, which have become increasingly disenfranchised.
The Implications for Starmer
When questioned about his potential response if Burnham wins the Makerfield by-election, Starmer remained non-committal. He stated, “I’m not going to do that,” in reference to setting a timetable for his exit. His remarks signal an ongoing struggle within the party as it grapples with recent electoral setbacks, including the resignation of five ministers as a direct consequence of the local election results.
The Makerfield constituency, which Labour secured in 2024 with a majority of 5,399 votes over Reform UK, will be a critical battleground. Reform’s strong performance in local elections indicates a formidable challenge for Labour, as party leader Nigel Farage has committed to “throw absolutely everything” at the upcoming by-election.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s approach to Brexit and his broader vision for Labour could reshape the party’s future, particularly in light of the shifting political landscape. With public disillusionment apparent and internal party dynamics at play, the direction Labour takes in the coming months will be crucial. Burnham’s ability to navigate these waters, while addressing the concerns of both traditional Labour supporters and Brexit advocates, may determine not only his ascent within the party but also Labour’s prospects in the next general election. The stakes are high, and the political landscape is ripe for change.
