Around fifty Labour MPs have expressed their discontent over the decision to prevent Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from contesting an upcoming parliamentary by-election. In a letter addressed to party leader Sir Keir Starmer, they argue this move could inadvertently bolster support for Reform UK, as polling indicates Burnham could be Labour’s strongest candidate for the vacant Gorton and Denton seat.
MPs Demand Reconsideration
The letter, although not publicly disclosed, reflects a growing unrest among Labour’s parliamentary ranks. Signatories have voiced their belief that there is “no legitimate reason” for Burnham’s exclusion and are urging the National Executive Committee (NEC) to reassess its decision. This sentiment underscores the anxiety among party members regarding the potential ramifications on Labour’s electoral prospects.
The NEC, which includes Starmer, justified its stance by stating that allowing Burnham to run would divert essential resources away from more critical elections. The Labour leader explained, “Resources, whether that’s money or people, need to be focused on the elections that we must have, not elections that we don’t have to have.”
The Political Landscape
The NEC’s decision stems from concerns about the implications of a by-election that could lead to an unnecessary mayoral contest should Burnham succeed. The previous mayoral election in Greater Manchester cost taxpayers approximately £4.7 million, adding a financial dimension to the debate.
Notably, Burnham is viewed as a potential contender for Labour leadership, but he would need to return to Parliament to mount a serious challenge. His exclusion from the by-election has raised eyebrows among colleagues, with many arguing that it stifles the party’s chances in a constituency Labour won with a 13,000 majority in the last election.
Several Labour peers have also signed the letter, indicating a wider concern within the party. The NEC’s vote on Sunday revealed a decisive majority against Burnham’s candidacy, with only deputy leader Lucy Powell supporting his bid, while Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary and NEC chair, abstained.
Burnham’s Response
When approached for comment, Burnham refrained from analysing the NEC’s decision, stating he is focused on his role as mayor. “I’ve said what I needed to say and here I am back in my job,” he remarked. While expressing disappointment, he remained coy about whether he felt threatened by Starmer’s leadership, simply stating, “I’m not making any further comment.”
The forthcoming Gorton and Denton by-election is tentatively scheduled for 26 February. Both Reform UK and the Greens are expected to present significant challenges to Labour’s hold on the seat, making the NEC’s decision increasingly contentious.
Party Dynamics and Future Implications
Former Labour cabinet minister Harriet Harman has called for her colleagues to concentrate on securing a victory in the by-election rather than dwelling on the controversy surrounding Burnham. The situation highlights the underlying tensions within the Labour Party as it navigates a landscape where internal divisions could jeopardise its electoral viability.
Why it Matters
The decision to block Burnham from running has ignited a fierce debate within Labour, raising questions about the party’s strategic direction and leadership dynamics. As the impending by-election looms, the fallout from this controversy may significantly influence Labour’s prospects, potentially reshaping the balance of power within the party as it prepares for future electoral battles.
