Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has announced he will not reignite Brexit debates, firmly stating he is not advocating for the UK to rejoin the European Union. As he gears up for a potential challenge to Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership following the Makerfield by-election, Burnham described Brexit as “damaging” but emphasised the need to avoid getting bogged down in endless arguments.
Burnham’s Stance on Brexit
In a candid address at a conference in Leeds, Burnham reiterated that while he believes Brexit has had negative consequences, it is crucial for the party to respect the outcome of the 2016 referendum. “The last thing we should do right now is re-run those arguments,” he asserted. Burnham made it clear he respects the democratic process and believes that questioning the referendum result would undermine his calls for stronger local governance.
This latest declaration comes on the heels of a week filled with political turmoil within the Labour Party, including the resignation of five ministers amid dissatisfaction with Starmer’s leadership following recent electoral setbacks.
Leadership Aspirations and Challenges
Burnham’s ambition to lead the Labour Party hinges on his success in the Makerfield constituency, which has a history of strong support for Brexit. Currently, he has been cleared to seek Labour’s candidacy after local MP Josh Simons stepped aside for him, although he still must secure the backing of local party members.
His leadership pitch includes a radical shift in Labour’s approach to governance, advocating for a redistribution of resources from a “bloated national state” to local authorities that he argues have been neglected. “We have hollowed out councils and created an unaccountable state,” Burnham claimed, calling for a significant “rewiring” of how politics operates in the UK.
Brexit Again in the Spotlight
The issue of Brexit is back in the political limelight, particularly with former Health Secretary Wes Streeting declaring that exiting the EU was a “catastrophic mistake” and suggesting the UK should eventually rejoin the bloc. This has set the stage for a possible internal Labour clash as leadership ambitions clash with party lines.
While Burnham seeks to distance himself from the Brexit debate, Starmer has maintained a policy of staying outside the EU, adhering to the party’s manifesto, which rules out a return to the single market or freedom of movement. This divergence in perspectives could complicate a leadership contest should Burnham secure his by-election victory.
Starmer’s Position
When pressed about a potential timetable for his departure if Burnham wins in Makerfield, Starmer was evasive, stating, “I’m not going to do that.” He remains committed to leading the party into the next general election but acknowledges the need for change following a disappointing set of local election results.
The upcoming by-election in Makerfield, which Labour won in 2024 by a margin of 5,399 votes over Reform UK, is set to be fiercely contested. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has pledged to pour significant resources into this campaign, indicating a robust challenge for Labour’s hold on the constituency.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s commitment to steering clear of Brexit disputes reflects a broader strategy to unify the party and focus on local governance issues that resonate with voters. As the political landscape continues to evolve, how Labour navigates its internal conflicts and external pressures—especially concerning Brexit—may well determine its future trajectory. The upcoming by-election will not only be a litmus test for Burnham’s leadership viability but could also redefine the party’s stance on crucial national issues, setting the tone for the next general election.
