Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to block Andy Burnham from standing as a Labour candidate in an upcoming byelection in Manchester has raised eyebrows. With Burnham, the city’s highly regarded mayor, sidelined, Starmer appears to prioritise party control over the broader objective of defeating Reform UK. This choice may have profound implications for Labour’s electoral strategy.
The Stakes in Manchester
Starmer has positioned the fight against Reform UK as Labour’s top priority, labelling their policies as “racist” and a clear threat to the nation. However, by rejecting Burnham—a figure with substantial grassroots support—he risks undermining Labour’s chances in a constituency that could be pivotal in the fight against the far-right party. The mayor’s popularity, evidenced by his sweeping victory in Greater Manchester in 2024, suggests that his candidacy could galvanise support that Labour desperately needs.
Starmer argues that allowing Burnham to pursue a parliamentary seat could compromise Labour’s hold on the mayoralty. While this concern is valid, many believe Burnham would have actively campaigned to ensure Labour retained his former position. The notion that Labour would dramatically falter under his dual candidacy seems far-fetched, especially given his established track record.
Lessons from Recent Byelections
Labour’s recent performances in byelections, particularly in Runcorn and Caerphilly, illustrate a crucial lesson: victory against Reform UK hinges not solely on a sensible policy agenda, but rather on creating a united front. In Runcorn, Labour consolidated anti-Reform votes effectively, while in Wales, the party’s inability to do so allowed other progressive forces to capture the narrative of “change.”
In Gorton and Denton, the dilemma persists. Burnham represents a unifying force, appealing to a diverse electorate that includes working-class voters, the Muslim community, and younger professionals. Conversely, a candidate backed solely by Starmer may lack the same magnetism. Without a broad coalition, Labour could find itself squeezed between fragmented left-wing parties and an ascending Reform UK.
Control versus Collaboration
Starmer’s instinct to maintain control over party dynamics echoes a broader insecurity often seen in political leaders. This pursuit of control can stifle collaboration, leading to missed opportunities for coalition-building. Such tendencies are reminiscent of authoritarian practices that prioritise party unity over democratic engagement. By sidelining a popular figure like Burnham, Starmer risks repeating mistakes that could cost Labour dearly in the long run.
Why it Matters
The implications of Starmer’s decision extend beyond internal party dynamics; they speak to Labour’s capability to effectively challenge the rising tide of far-right populism. If Labour is to reclaim its position as the primary opposition force, it must embrace a strategy that prioritises collaboration over control. The party’s future depends on its ability to unify diverse voices within its ranks and present a cohesive front against Reform UK—a challenge that becomes increasingly daunting with each misstep.
