As the resignation of Labour MP Andrew Gwynne in Manchester has triggered a by-election, a fierce battle is brewing within the party over the potential return of Andy Burnham to Westminster. Allies of Labour leader Keir Starmer have launched a “Stop Andy Burnham” campaign to prevent the popular Greater Manchester mayor from reclaiming a seat in Parliament, fearing a leadership challenge.
Burnham, who served as a Labour MP from 2001 to 2017 before becoming mayor, has long been rumoured to be eyeing a return to national politics. His allies have suggested there would be significant unrest among MPs, unions and party members if the leadership tried to block his candidacy. However, Starmer’s team is determined to control the selection process, with sources indicating that the odds are stacked against Burnham securing the nomination.
The by-election in Gwynne’s Gorton and Denton constituency is seen as a crucial battleground, with Reform UK expected to mount a significant challenge. Labour is keen to avoid the embarrassment of losing the seat, and there are concerns that Burnham’s candidacy could destabilise the party ahead of the local and devolved elections in May.
Burnham has insisted that he remains focused on his role as mayor and would only consider a return to Parliament if he felt he had something to contribute. However, with Starmer’s leadership under pressure and Labour’s fortunes uncertain, the former cabinet minister is viewed as a potential saviour by many in the party.
The battle lines have been drawn, and the outcome could have significant implications for the future direction of the Labour Party. As the by-election process unfolds, the political landscape in Westminster is set to become increasingly volatile.
