The internal strife within the Labour Party has escalated as approximately 50 MPs have voiced their opposition to the decision preventing Andy Burnham from contesting the Gorton and Denton byelection set for 26 February. The Manchester mayor has publicly refuted claims from Downing Street sources suggesting he was informed that his bid would be rejected outright by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
Burnham’s Accusations
Following reports from unnamed allies of Keir Starmer, who asserted that Burnham had been told “in no uncertain terms” that he would not receive permission to stand, Burnham took to social media to challenge the narrative. In a response to ITV political editor Robert Peston, he stated, “This is simply untrue,” and further indicated that he was seeking an urgent discussion with No 10 regarding the misleading briefing.
The prime minister’s office has faced scrutiny, with Burnham’s supporters warning that excluding him from the race could bolster Reform UK. The letter signed by nearly a tenth of Labour MPs describes the party’s decision as a “real gift” to the right-wing opposition.
Starmer’s Stance
In an attempt to pacify tensions, Starmer acknowledged Burnham’s commendable work as mayor. However, he reiterated the NEC’s stance, which prioritises avoiding a costly mayoral election that would divert resources from more essential campaigns. “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,” he asserted.
Housing Secretary Steve Reed weighed in on the debate, emphasising that the NEC’s decision had received overwhelming support from its members, despite the growing dissent among MPs.
The Contest Heats Up
As Labour prepares for the Gorton and Denton byelection, the stakes are high. The constituency was secured by Labour with over 50% of the vote in the 2024 elections. However, the situation has ignited fierce competition, not only from Reform UK but also from a revitalised Green Party, which is eyeing a potential victory now that Burnham is sidelined.
Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister, mocked Reform UK after one of its MPs, Lee Anderson, mistakenly campaigned in the wrong constituency, illustrating the party’s disarray. Meanwhile, Labour’s candidate selection process is underway, with speculation surrounding who will emerge as the party’s representative. Notably, while Manchester city council leader Bev Craig has ruled herself out, Bury council leader Eamonn O’Brien is reportedly in the running.
Why it Matters
This unfolding drama within the Labour Party highlights the fragility of its internal unity and the potential ramifications for the upcoming byelection. With Burnham’s exclusion from the race, Labour risks alienating its base in a seat previously considered safe. The implications of this internal conflict could extend beyond Gorton and Denton, affecting the party’s overall strategy and positioning as it navigates a challenging political landscape. The dynamics at play may redefine not only the byelection outcome but also the party’s future under Starmer’s leadership.
