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In a significant development for the Labour Party, Andy Burnham has confirmed his intention to seek the approval of the national executive committee (NEC) to stand in the upcoming Makerfield byelection. This move not only opens a potential pathway for Burnham to return to Parliament but also positions him as a contender for the party leadership amid growing discontent with current leader Keir Starmer.
A New Hope for Burnham
The announcement follows the resignation of Josh Simons, the current MP for Makerfield, who has triggered the byelection as he steps down from his role. This has reignited speculation about Burnham’s future, particularly after recent turmoil within the Labour ranks, including the resignation of Wes Streeting as health secretary. Streeting’s departure highlighted the mounting pressure on Starmer’s leadership, with many party members expressing dissatisfaction following disappointing election results.
In a statement, Burnham articulated the need for “much bigger change” at a national level, focusing on the pressing cost of living crisis. He emphasised his desire to replicate the positive changes he has implemented in Greater Manchester on a national scale, stating, “This is why I now seek people’s support to return to parliament: to bring the change we have brought to Greater Manchester to the whole of the UK and make politics work properly for people.”
The Byelection Landscape
Labour currently holds the Makerfield seat with a majority of just over 5,000 votes, making this byelection a crucial battleground. Reform UK, having come a close second in the previous election, has pledged to intensify their efforts to challenge Labour’s hold on the constituency, signalling that Burnham’s path back to Westminster will not be straightforward.
In the recent local elections, Reform UK secured a notable 50.4% across the eight wards in Makerfield, while Labour managed only 22.7%. This shift indicates that Burnham will face a formidable challenge as he seeks to reclaim the trust of the electorate.
Josh Simons, in his resignation letter, expressed his belief that the current government is failing to deliver the necessary reforms, stating, “I could not stand here and tell you that our politics is broken and things need to change, then stand in the way of supporting that change.” His endorsement of Burnham underscores the urgency felt by many in the party for a new direction.
Internal Dynamics and Leadership Aspirations
Burnham’s ambitions are further complicated by the internal dynamics within Labour. While he seeks to rally support, there are signs that Starmer’s leadership is increasingly under scrutiny. Reports suggest that a significant number of Labour MPs, approximately 100, have called for Starmer to step down. Many believe that Burnham may be the right figure to lead the party forward, with allies of Starmer indicating they would not obstruct his candidacy.
As the NEC meeting approaches, discussions around Burnham’s potential candidacy for the leadership are intensifying. Prominent figures within the party, including Angela Rayner and Ed Miliband, have shown support for Burnham, reinforcing the notion that he may be the candidate best positioned to unite the party and connect with voters.
The Road Ahead
If Burnham succeeds in the Makerfield byelection, he could trigger a leadership contest that he would be expected to win, especially given the current climate within the party. The next five to six weeks will be crucial as the byelection campaign unfolds. Burnham’s ability to galvan
