In a significant political moment, Sir Keir Starmer has advised Andy Burnham against immediately contesting his leadership if elected as an MP in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. Instead, Starmer emphasised the pressing need for Burnham, along with the Labour Party, to concentrate on the pivotal election for a new mayor of Greater Manchester, should Burnham secure his parliamentary seat on Thursday.
The Stakes of the By-Election
Should Burnham triumph in Makerfield, he would be compelled to resign from his role as mayor, triggering a by-election expected by early August. His anticipated challenge to Starmer has generated considerable speculation, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stating that a leadership contest would be detrimental for the nation. Sunak reiterated his intention to resist any challenges, affirming the importance of stability during this turbulent period.
Starmer remarked on the significance of the forthcoming mayoral election, stating, “We have to pull our sleeves up to ensure another Labour victory.” His focus on the local election underscores the critical nature of retaining control of the Greater Manchester mayoralty, a position Burnham has held since 2017.
Leadership Tensions Mount
Adding fuel to the fire, Labour MP Wes Streeting has signalled his willingness to instigate a leadership contest following the by-election. Streeting, who resigned as health secretary last month, has stated he wanted to give Burnham a chance to enter the leadership race first. Speaking on BBC’s Newsnight, he expressed his preference for the Prime Minister to resolve the situation independently rather than leaving it to others to provoke a contest. “There can’t be this uncertainty and paralysis,” he warned.
Starmer responded to Streeting’s comments by highlighting the immediate priority of the Manchester mayoralty by-election, stressing, “I hope he wins, but we then tip straight into the Manchester mayoralty by-election… so we’re all going to have to focus on that.”
A Fragile Leadership
The Prime Minister’s remarks foreshadow the argument he may make should Burnham win in Makerfield. Concerns are mounting among Labour MPs regarding the potential for Reform UK to make inroads in the Manchester mayoral by-election, despite Burnham’s last victory being by a substantial margin in 2024. Supporters of Burnham argue that the importance of the mayoralty strengthens the case for his rapid ascent to the leadership of the party.
Starmer has previously articulated the weight of his role, stating that being Prime Minister is “the privilege of my life,” underlining his commitment to public service. However, recent resignations from key positions, including John Healey and Al Carns over funding disputes, have further complicated his leadership landscape.
The Chief of the Defence Staff has also raised alarms, indicating that the UK armed forces may need to “dial back” on training and operations without increased funding. Starmer has indicated that new Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis is currently evaluating the situation, acknowledging the ongoing discussions regarding military priorities and capabilities.
Why it Matters
The unfolding events surrounding the Makerfield by-election and potential leadership challenges highlight a crucial moment for the Labour Party, as it navigates internal tensions and external pressures. The outcome could reshape not only the party’s leadership dynamics but also its strategy heading into future elections. With the stakes higher than ever, Labour must consolidate its focus if it hopes to maintain its influence in key regions like Greater Manchester. The political landscape is shifting, and every decision made in the coming days could have lasting repercussions for the party’s future.