Andy Burnham is reportedly seeking insights from Sue Gray, the former chief of staff to Keir Starmer, as he prepares for a potential return to Westminster. This move underscores the increasing seriousness among Labour’s top brass regarding Burnham’s political ambitions in light of recent local election setbacks for the party.
A Longstanding Connection
Burnham and Gray’s relationship spans decades, dating back to his tenure as a minister in Tony Blair’s administration, where Gray served in the Cabinet Office. Though their history is well-established, it is important to note that Gray is not anticipated to take on an official role should Burnham ascend to leadership.
Gray departed from Downing Street in October 2024 amidst reports of internal strife and criticisms directed at her management style, which some colleagues deemed overly controlling. Her exit followed a turbulent period marked by tensions within Starmer’s office, raising questions about her influence and approach to governance.
Labour’s Future at Stake
As Burnham gears up for the Makerfield byelection—widely viewed as a critical juncture for both his career and the Labour Party—his allies are rallying support. The byelection comes after a troubling set of local election results, casting a shadow over Starmer’s long-term leadership prospects.
Darren Jones, the Treasury’s chief secretary, expressed concern over the internal power struggles within Labour, urging party members to focus on pressing national issues rather than personal ambitions. “There’s a lot of fantasy politics going on right now,” he remarked during a BBC interview, stressing the need for a collective effort to enhance the party’s electoral performance as they approach the next general election.
Polling data reveals a competitive landscape in Makerfield, with Labour leading at 43% against Reform UK’s 40%. A recent survey from More in Common indicates that under Burnham’s leadership, Labour holds a slight edge nationally at 30%, ahead of Reform UK at 27% and the Conservatives at 20%.
A Show of Unity
In a display of solidarity, several senior Labour figures, including Wes Streeting and Lucy Powell, have been spotted supporting Burnham’s campaign efforts in Makerfield. Streeting, a potential contender for future party leadership, has been vocal about the need for a robust debate regarding Labour’s direction. He has proposed the introduction of a “wealth tax that works” and asserted his capability to lead the party effectively in a future contest.
Meanwhile, Burnham is keen to clarify his stance on key issues, notably distancing himself from calls to rejoin the EU. He advocates for increased public control over vital sectors such as transport, housing, and energy, aiming to resonate with a voter base eager for tangible changes.
Policy Over Personality
At the recent Hay literary festival, former foreign secretary David Miliband emphasised the importance of policy, arguing that Labour must focus on substantive changes rather than merely shifting leadership. He pointed out that while Starmer’s government has made strides in certain areas, such as apprenticeships and renewable energy, the pace of change must accelerate significantly to address the pressing needs of the electorate.
Miliband also addressed speculation regarding his brother, Ed, potentially taking on the role of chancellor in a Burnham-led government, stating that such discussions had not occurred.
Why it Matters
The developments surrounding Burnham and Gray signal a pivotal moment for the Labour Party as it grapples with its identity and direction in the wake of disappointing electoral performances. The Makerfield byelection not only represents a test of Burnham’s political clout but also serves as a barometer for the party’s future trajectory. As Labour navigates these internal dynamics, the stakes are high, and the path forward remains fraught with challenge and opportunity.