Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has declared his intention to avoid revisiting Brexit debates while outlining his vision for a Labour Party that better serves the North. As he gears up for a potential leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer, Burnham emphasised that while Brexit has proven detrimental, the focus should shift towards constructive solutions rather than rehashing old arguments.
Burnham’s Position on Brexit
Burnham made his remarks during a conference in Leeds, stating, “Brexit has been damaging, but I also believe the last thing we should do right now is re-run those arguments.” He clarified that he is not advocating for the UK to rejoin the European Union, respecting the outcome of the 2016 referendum. His stance appears to be a strategic move aimed at solidifying his support within Labour, particularly as he prepares for a by-election in the Makerfield constituency, which has a strong pro-Brexit history.
Previously, Burnham expressed a desire to see the UK back in the EU at some point in his lifetime. However, he now seems keen to avoid inflaming divisions within the party, especially as the leadership landscape begins to shift. His comments come amidst a growing conversation within Labour about the implications of Brexit, following former Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s assertion that leaving the EU was a “catastrophic mistake.”
Leadership Dynamics Within Labour
The backdrop to Burnham’s statements includes a turbulent period for the Labour Party, with several ministers resigning in response to Starmer’s leadership. The Prime Minister has made it clear that he will not set a timetable for his departure, insisting that he is committed to leading the party into the next general election. Starmer has faced criticism for Labour’s disappointing performance in recent elections, and both he and Burnham will need to navigate this challenging environment to solidify their positions.
In a bid to reclaim trust from voters, Burnham is advocating for a restructuring of resources from the central government to local councils. He lamented the current state of local governance, stating, “We have hollowed out councils and have created an unaccountable state,” calling for a system that promotes local accountability and engagement.
The Road Ahead for Burnham
For Burnham to challenge Starmer effectively, he must secure victory in the forthcoming Makerfield by-election, a seat previously held by Labour with a majority of 5,399 votes over Reform UK. The constituency has shown robust support for Brexit, complicating Burnham’s path as he seeks to balance local sentiments with his broader ambitions.
The Liberal Democrats have already accused Burnham of a policy reversal, labelling his current position a “U-turn” before he has even been elected. As the political landscape shifts, the stakes are high for both Burnham and Starmer, with the potential for Brexit to become a pivotal issue in the leadership race.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s approach signals a crucial moment for the Labour Party as it grapples with its identity in the post-Brexit era. By choosing not to revisit old debates, he aims to position himself as a forward-thinking leader focused on practical solutions for the North. This strategy could resonate with voters seeking a break from the divisions of the past, but it also raises questions about how Labour will navigate the complexities of Brexit policy moving forward. As the party seeks to regain traction, the outcomes of the forthcoming by-election and leadership dynamics will be pivotal in shaping its future.
