Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced his intention to actively campaign for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in the upcoming Makerfield by-election, scheduled for 18 June. Amidst a turbulent week for Labour, marked by significant internal dissent, Starmer emphasised the importance of unity within the party as they prepare for this critical electoral battle.
Starmer’s Call for Unity
During a visit to Essex, Starmer stressed the necessity for the Labour Party to “all pull together and fight” in Makerfield. He expressed his eagerness to engage with voters, stating, “I want to be part of that, of course I do.” This move comes in the wake of a challenging period for Labour, following disappointing local election results that saw the party lose ground in Wales and approximately 1,500 council seats across England.
In a bid to regain momentum, Starmer has made several announcements this week regarding the cost of living crisis, asserting his commitment to remain in Downing Street despite mounting pressure from within the party. The Prime Minister’s decision to support Burnham, who is considered a potential rival for Labour leadership, adds an unexpected twist to the campaign dynamics.
A Divided Leadership
The backdrop to this by-election is a growing rebellion against Starmer’s leadership. Just last week, numerous Labour MPs publicly called for his resignation, and Wes Streeting stepped down as health secretary, citing concerns over the government’s “drift.” Amidst these challenges, Starmer has attempted to regain control of the narrative by highlighting positive developments, including recent economic growth, a reduction in NHS waiting times, and a notable decline in UK net migration, which has reached its lowest level since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, Burnham has been vocal about the need for change within the party, declaring in a recent interview that Britain has been “on the wrong path for 40 years.” His campaign message suggests a renewed vision for Labour, positioning a vote for him as a vote for transformative progress.
A Competitive Landscape
The Makerfield by-election is poised to be a significant contest, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage already rallying support for his party’s candidate, Robert Kenyon. Farage has characterised the race as a “David versus Goliath battle,” given that Kenyon secured second place in the constituency during the 2024 general election. The Reform UK campaign is determined to exert considerable effort, with Farage declaring they would “throw the kitchen sink” at this electoral opportunity, particularly focusing on addressing social housing pressures in the region.
The Green Party, meanwhile, is in the process of seeking a new candidate after the withdrawal of Chris Kennedy due to personal reasons. The party aims to highlight the potential risks posed by Reform UK while advocating for policies that ensure the wealthy contribute their fair share.
A Changing Political Landscape
As the Makerfield by-election approaches, the political atmosphere is charged with anticipation and uncertainty. Starmer’s efforts to rally support for Burnham may be seen as a strategic move to bolster party unity, yet it also raises questions about the future of his leadership. With Burnham’s contrasting message of change and Reform UK’s aggressive campaigning, the stakes are high for Labour in this pivotal contest.
Why it Matters
The outcome of the Makerfield by-election is set to be a litmus test for Labour’s current leadership and its future trajectory. As internal divisions surface, the party’s ability to present a cohesive front will be crucial in addressing voter concerns and restoring confidence ahead of the next general election. This contest not only reflects the immediate challenges facing Labour but also signals a broader shift in the political landscape, where traditional party loyalties are being tested by emerging alternatives.
