Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, has turned to Sue Gray, the former chief of staff to Keir Starmer, for strategic advice on navigating a potential return to Westminster. Their discussions come amid intensifying speculation about the future of Labour, particularly following lacklustre results in recent local elections that have raised questions about Starmer’s leadership.
Long-Standing Ties and Political Strategy
Burnham and Gray’s relationship dates back to Burnham’s tenure as a minister in Tony Blair’s government, where Gray was an influential figure in the Cabinet Office. While sources suggest that Gray is unlikely to take on any formal position in a future Labour government, her insights into party dynamics are deemed invaluable at a time when Labour grapples with internal succession debates, especially in light of the looming Makerfield byelection.
The byelection is seen as a critical test for Labour, with Burnham’s campaign potentially setting the tone for his political future. Allies have indicated that Burnham is fully focused on this electoral contest, which could significantly impact the party’s trajectory.
Internal Dynamics and Electoral Pressures
The internal jockeying for position within Labour has drawn criticism, particularly from senior figures like Darren Jones, the chief secretary to the Treasury, who has labelled the current situation as “fantasy politics.” Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Jones emphasised the need for Labour to concentrate on pressing national issues rather than on internal power struggles.
He stated, “There’s a lot of fantasy politics going on right now inside the Labour party… We mustn’t lose sight of our primary focus on the country.” This sentiment underscores the urgency for Labour to refine its strategy in the face of disappointing local election results, particularly as polling suggests that Burnham’s Labour is in a tight race in Makerfield against Reform UK.
Recent data from Survation indicates that Burnham’s support stands at 43%, closely followed by Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon at 40%. A separate More in Common survey revealed Labour’s national polling under Burnham’s leadership at 30%, just ahead of Reform UK’s 27% and the Conservatives at 20%. The shifting dynamics signal that Burnham’s electoral performance could be pivotal for Labour’s future.
A Show of Support Amidst Rivalry
As Burnham campaigns in Makerfield, he has garnered support from notable Labour figures, including Wes Streeting and deputy leader Lucy Powell. Streeting, who is also seen as a potential challenger in any future leadership contest, has been vocal about the need for a “wealth tax that works” and has called for an open debate regarding Labour’s direction.
Moreover, the chief whip Jonathan Reynolds, who remains aligned with Starmer, was spotted promoting Burnham’s campaign, underscoring the mixed loyalties within the party as it navigates its future.
The Broader Labour Landscape
In the midst of this internal turbulence, former foreign secretary David Miliband has urged Labour to focus on policy reforms rather than merely on leadership changes. Speaking at the Hay literary festival, Miliband highlighted the need for substantive change during Starmer’s premiership, arguing that a shift in leadership without a corresponding evolution in policy would render efforts fruitless.
Miliband remarked, “If those who are arguing to change the prime minister don’t change the policy, nothing will be different.” This perspective resonates amid calls for Labour to elevate its ambitions beyond mere electoral strategy, fostering a more significant societal impact.
Reports have also emerged concerning the possibility of Ed Miliband taking on the role of chancellor if Burnham ascends to leadership, although David Miliband has stated that this is not a matter he has discussed with his brother.
Why it Matters
The unfolding events within Labour speak to a party at a crossroads, grappling with its identity and the implications of electoral performance. Burnham’s relationship with Gray represents a strategic alliance that could shape Labour’s future direction, particularly as it seeks to regain ground lost to rival parties. As the Makerfield byelection approaches, the stakes are high, not just for Burnham, but for the party’s broader ambitions in a rapidly changing political landscape.
