Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has made it clear that he will not reignite the Brexit debate as he eyes a potential leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer. In a recent address, Burnham asserted that while he views Brexit as “damaging,” he believes the UK must move forward without getting mired in past arguments.
Burnham’s Stance on Brexit
Speaking at a conference in Leeds, Burnham stated, “I am not proposing that the UK considers rejoining the EU. I respect the decision that was made at the referendum.” His remarks come ahead of the Makerfield by-election, where he is poised to stand as Labour’s candidate, following the resignation of current MP Josh Simons.
The Mayor’s approach signals a strategic distancing from the divisive issue that has plagued British politics since 2016. Burnham, who previously expressed a desire to see the UK back in the EU within his lifetime, is keen to focus on building a path forward rather than revisiting contentious debates. He emphasised that engaging in constant argument over Brexit would leave Britain “stuck in a permanent rut.”
Leadership Contest Dynamics
Burnham’s position is particularly noteworthy as it contrasts with former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who recently characterised Brexit as a “catastrophic mistake” and advocated for the UK to eventually rejoin the EU. Streeting, who has declared his intention to enter the leadership race, believes that a “new special relationship” with Europe is the UK’s “biggest economic opportunity.”
As the Labour Party gears up for a possible leadership contest, Starmer has remained steadfast in his commitment not to set a timeline for his departure from the role of prime minister. He expressed support for Burnham, stating, “I will be backing 100% whoever the Labour candidate is,” while framing the upcoming by-election as a critical fight between Labour and Reform UK.
A Call for Change
In his broader vision for Labour, Burnham called for a significant overhaul of the party’s approach to governance. He proposed reallocating resources from a “bloated national state” to local councils, which he described as “malnourished.” “We have hollowed out councils and created an unaccountable state,” he remarked, emphasising the need for accountability and local control.
Burnham’s assertion that Labour must evolve to regain public trust reflects a growing recognition within the party that changes are necessary following disappointing election results. He stated, “Labour needs to change if we are to regain people’s trust,” underscoring the urgency of his vision for the party’s future.
The Political Landscape Ahead
The Makerfield constituency, which significantly backed Brexit in the 2016 referendum, will be a crucial battleground for Burnham. While Labour secured a majority there in 2024, Reform UK has indicated it will “throw absolutely everything” into the by-election campaign, potentially complicating Burnham’s path to leadership.
As Burnham prepares for a pivotal moment in his political career, the Labour Party finds itself at a crossroads. The outcome of the Makerfield by-election could not only shape Burnham’s ambitions but also redefine Labour’s stance on Brexit and its overall strategy heading into future elections.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s decision to sidestep the Brexit debate signifies a potential shift within Labour, moving towards a focus on local governance and accountability amidst a backdrop of political turbulence. As the party grapples with its identity and direction, the leadership contest poses a critical opportunity for Labour to redefine its relationship with voters and restore public confidence. The unfolding events in Makerfield will be a litmus test for both Burnham’s leadership aspirations and the party’s approach to one of the most polarising issues in recent British history.
