In a significant development for the Labour Party, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has been authorised to pursue selection as the party’s candidate for an upcoming by-election in Makerfield. This move, sanctioned by Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC), comes after Burnham’s earlier bid was thwarted in January. Should he secure the candidacy and triumph in the election, Burnham is anticipated to position himself as a formidable challenger to Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership, amidst growing unrest within the party.
A Seat Vacant and an Opportunity Knocking
The vacancy in the Makerfield constituency arose following the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, who has made way for Burnham’s potential return to Westminster. The by-election is expected to take place on 18 June, a date that could mark a pivotal moment for both Burnham and the Labour Party’s future direction.
Prime Minister Starmer currently faces pressure to resign after his party’s disappointing electoral performance, with nearly 90 Labour MPs publicly calling for his departure. However, he remains resolute, offering no indication of stepping down or appointing a timeline for his exit. Steve Reed, the housing secretary and a close ally of Starmer, urged the party to pause, reflect, and refocus on the responsibilities to the electorate.
Internal Party Dynamics and Leadership Speculation
While Burnham seeks to make his mark, the political landscape is rife with speculation regarding potential leadership challenges. Labour’s internal strife has intensified, with figures like Wes Streeting, the former health secretary, emerging as another potential contender. His resignation has sparked chatter about his intentions, although he has yet to declare his candidacy. Streeting’s allies assert he possesses the backing necessary to mount a serious challenge to Starmer.
Burnham himself has expressed a desire to “bring the change we have brought to Greater Manchester to the whole of the UK and make politics work properly for people.” His candidacy in Makerfield could serve as a crucial stepping stone, not only to reclaim his Parliament seat but also to launch a leadership bid if he secures victory.
Competing Forces in Makerfield
Historically, Makerfield has been a reliable Labour stronghold, yet recent electoral trends indicate a shift towards Reform UK, presenting a formidable challenge for Burnham. As Burnham prepares for the selection process, which concludes on 18 May, he faces a race that could test his political mettle. Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice has pledged to concentrate resources on achieving a “seismic” victory in the by-election, indicating that Burnham’s path to success may not be as straightforward as anticipated.
The Green Party has also declared its intent to build on their recent electoral successes in the region, signalling a heightened competition for Labour in a constituency once considered secure.
Diverging Views on Leadership
The atmosphere within Labour is fraught with tension. MP Neil Coyle has voiced his frustration over Burnham’s long-standing ambitions to topple Starmer, urging the NEC to resist what he perceives as Burnham’s “ego.” On the contrary, fellow Labour MP Olivia Blake has lauded Burnham’s achievements in Manchester, arguing that his return could provide the party with the clarity and leadership it desperately needs.
Even amid the internal squabbles, the public’s sentiment is palpable. Home Office Minister Mike Tapp expressed contrition over the recent leadership turmoil, acknowledging the disillusionment felt by constituents and the urgent need for renewed focus on governance.
Why it Matters
The outcome of the Makerfield by-election could be a watershed moment for the Labour Party, entrenching or dismantling existing leadership paradigms. Burnham’s candidacy not only represents a potential shift in power dynamics but also reflects the ongoing struggles within Labour to redefine its identity and purpose in a changing political landscape. As voices within the party call for accountability and change, the stakes for Burnham—and for the future of Labour—could not be higher.
