Greater Manchester’s Mayor Andy Burnham has received the green light from Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to pursue candidacy in the upcoming by-election for the Makerfield constituency. This decision marks a significant turn after his prior bid for selection was blocked in January. Should he secure the nomination and win, Burnham is anticipated to mount a challenge for the leadership of the Labour Party, potentially positioning himself as a contender to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister.
Makerfield By-Election Set for June
The Makerfield seat became vacant following the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, who has stepped down to facilitate Burnham’s return to Westminster. The by-election is expected to take place on 18 June, a date that could prove pivotal for Labour’s future direction amid ongoing leadership turmoil.
While the party grapples with the fallout from recent electoral defeats, Burnham’s entry into the fray is seen as a beacon of hope for many in the party. During his announcement, Burnham expressed a desire to replicate the successful changes made in Greater Manchester on a national scale, stating, “I want to make politics work properly for people and will not take a single vote for granted.”
Leadership Speculation Continues
As Burnham prepares for his potential return, speculation surrounding the future of Sir Keir Starmer intensifies. Despite substantial pressure, including calls from nearly 90 Labour MPs for his resignation and the departure of five ministers, Starmer remains defiant, indicating he will not set a timetable for leaving office.
The process for electing a new leader requires a formal challenge from a candidate who commands support from at least 81 Labour MPs. Under current party rules, Burnham’s leadership ambitions hinge on his success in Makerfield, as he cannot enter the contest without being an MP.
Wes Streeting, former health secretary and a potential leadership aspirant, has also emerged in this evolving narrative. After resigning, Streeting called for a constructive debate on the party’s future, although he has not formally declared his candidacy. He welcomed Burnham’s potential return to Parliament, asserting the need for the party’s “best players on the pitch.”
Challenges Ahead for Burnham
Historically, Makerfield has been regarded as a safe Labour seat, though recent trends suggest a shift towards Reform UK, presenting a challenging landscape for Burnham. His candidacy will not only need to galvanize the Labour base but also appeal to a constituency that appears to be diversifying in its political preferences.
The political environment remains charged, with various factions within Labour expressing differing views on leadership and direction. Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has indicated she may consider a run but is cautious about triggering a leadership contest. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has dismissed Burnham’s ambitions, arguing that he aims to reclaim a position he has been absent from for a decade.
Broader Implications for Labour
The turbulent atmosphere surrounding Labour is palpable, with Home Office Minister Mike Tapp publicly apologising for the recent weeks of uncertainty. He expressed a desire to shift focus back to governance rather than leadership speculation, reflecting the broader concern within the party regarding its public image and effectiveness.
Labour MP Neil Coyle has voiced strong opposition to Burnham’s ambitions, suggesting that the NEC should prevent his candidacy to avoid promoting “the ego of one man.” In contrast, MP Olivia Blake has praised Burnham’s achievements, advocating for his return as a means of reinvigorating the party’s appeal.
Why it Matters
The outcome of the Makerfield by-election could set the stage for a significant shift within the Labour Party, potentially ushering in a new leadership dynamic. As Burnham positions himself as a candidate, the implications for party unity and its electoral strategy will be closely scrutinised. With the current political landscape fraught with challenges, Burnham’s bid could either revitalise Labour’s fortunes or further complicate its path forward.
