In a significant move signalling his ambitions for a return to Westminster, Andy Burnham has reportedly engaged in discussions with Sue Gray, the former chief of staff to Keir Starmer. This collaboration comes as Labour navigates a challenging political landscape following disappointing local election outcomes, raising questions about the party’s leadership trajectory.
A Longstanding Connection
Burnham and Gray’s relationship dates back to his tenure as a minister in Tony Blair’s administration, where Gray was an influential figure within the Cabinet Office. Their decades-long acquaintance underscores a potential alliance that could reshape Labour’s future, especially as Burnham prepares for the crucial Makerfield by-election. While Gray’s role in a future government remains informal, her insights are seen as invaluable in strategising a successful transition to Downing Street for Burnham.
Gray’s exit from Downing Street in October 2024 followed a series of controversies and rising tensions within Starmer’s operation. Criticism of her management style, described by some colleagues as “control freakery,” contributed to her departure, as it created delays in policy implementation and appointment decisions. Now, as Burnham seeks to solidify his political standing, the dynamics of this partnership will be crucial.
The Stakes in Makerfield
Allies of Burnham highlight that his focus remains steadfast on the Makerfield by-election, a pivotal event that could determine Labour’s direction and Burnham’s political fate. As Labour confronts internal strife and external pressures, the by-election emerges as a litmus test for the party’s appeal in traditionally safe constituencies.
Darren Jones, the chief secretary to the Treasury, voiced concerns about the political manoeuvring within Labour. Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, he remarked, “There’s a lot of fantasy politics going on right now inside the Labour party… We need to focus on the country’s pressing issues.” Jones, although a supporter of Burnham, emphasised the necessity of prioritising national concerns over internal rivalries.
Recent polling indicates a tight race in Makerfield, with Labour’s support at approximately 43% compared to Reform UK’s 40%, challenging the notion of Labour’s stronghold in the region. This precarious situation amplifies the urgency for Burnham’s campaign strategy to resonate with constituents who may be swayed by Reform UK’s rising profile.
Labour’s Leadership Debate
The internal debate over Labour’s leadership is intensifying, with figures like Wes Streeting, often viewed as a potential contender, recently rallying support for Burnham. Streeting’s presence alongside Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, signals a growing coalition behind Burnham as party members reassess their strategic objectives in light of recent electoral setbacks.
Streeting has also been vocal about the need for a “wealth tax that works,” positioning himself as a serious player in discussions about Labour’s future. His calls for a deeper contest over the party’s direction suggest that the leadership landscape may be more dynamic than previously perceived, with various factions vying for influence.
Burnham has maintained a clear stance against calls for rejoining the EU, a position he has articulated consistently since the last Labour conference. His advocacy for increased public control over key sectors such as transport, housing, and energy reflects a broader push for substantial policy reform that resonates with the electorate’s current concerns.
The Broader Political Landscape
At the Hay literary festival, former foreign secretary David Miliband echoed the sentiment that Labour must shift its focus from merely electoral strategies to substantive policy changes. He critiqued the current government for not doing enough during Starmer’s leadership, suggesting that while some initiatives have been beneficial, they fall significantly short of what is necessary.
Miliband underscored that the “what” of Labour’s platform must take precedence over the “who” of its leadership. He cautioned that without meaningful policy changes, any leadership transition would ultimately lead to the same outcomes. His remarks underscore the necessity for Labour to engage in serious introspection about its vision and objectives as it moves forward.
Why it Matters
The interplay between Burnham and Gray illustrates the intricate web of relationships and strategies shaping Labour’s future. As the party grapples with its identity and direction, the outcome of the Makerfield by-election may not only determine Burnham’s political trajectory but also redefine Labour’s approach to governance in the face of mounting pressures from both the electorate and rival parties. With the stakes higher than ever, the decisions made in the coming weeks will resonate far beyond the immediate electoral context, potentially influencing the party’s long-term viability.
