As the Makerfield by-election looms, Labour MPs are urging Andy Burnham to initiate a leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer without delay, should he secure victory. This pivotal by-election, taking place on Thursday, could influence the future of the Labour Party and potentially determine the next Prime Minister, with 76,641 voters in the former coal mining town set to cast their ballots.
Urgency Among Labour MPs
The anticipation surrounding Burnham’s candidacy has reached a fever pitch. Some Labour MPs are adamant that a leadership contest must commence swiftly, as they believe the current leadership under Starmer is faltering. Liverpool Riverside MP Kim Johnson articulated this sentiment, expressing hope for an immediate challenge that could unfold by Monday at the latest. “We can’t afford to delay any longer,” she stated, reflecting the growing impatience within the party.
Despite the pressure, Burnham has hinted at a more cautious approach. He indicated that he would refrain from launching a formal leadership bid within the first 72 hours post-election, preferring instead to engage in discussions with Starmer. However, this has not quelled the calls from his colleagues for a decisive shift in leadership.
Burnham’s Vision for Change
On the eve of the election, Burnham rallied supporters with promises of transformative change in British politics. He framed his candidacy as a rejection of decades of ineffective economic policies, stating, “A vote for me is a vote to end 40 years of trickle-down economics that didn’t trickle down much at all to people here.” His campaign has focused on measures to alleviate the financial burdens faced by local residents, including plans to reduce water and energy bills.
Former health secretary Wes Streeting has also signalled his readiness to challenge Starmer if Burnham emerges victorious, citing a need to resolve the paralysis within Labour leadership. The urgency of such a challenge is underscored by ongoing discussions among Labour MPs, with some contemplating resignations to compel Starmer to set a timeline for his departure.
The Stakes for Labour
Recent polling suggests that Burnham is favoured to win by a margin of approximately 5 percent, a sentiment echoed by internal Labour canvassing data. His appeal in Makerfield is largely attributed to the desire among constituents for a new direction, which they associate with Burnham rather than Starmer. A survey of business leaders revealed substantial support for Burnham, who enjoys a net positive approval rating for his ability to enhance the business environment.
Conversely, analysts warn that a loss for Labour in Makerfield could spell disaster for the party. Professor Sir John Curtice noted that a defeat would not only weaken Starmer’s position but could also plunge Labour into a prolonged leadership crisis, particularly if Starmer remains resistant to stepping down.
Reactions and Implications
The political ramifications of this by-election extend beyond Labour’s internal dynamics. If Burnham fails to secure the seat, it would be a significant blow to the party’s credibility, raising questions about its viability in traditional strongholds. Lord Robert Hayward emphasised that a loss would highlight deeper issues within Labour, suggesting that Burnham’s failure to sway voters could indicate a broader disconnect with the electorate.
Furthermore, should Burnham win, it would not only solidify his position as a potential leader but could also bolster Labour’s image as a formidable force against the increasing popularity of Reform UK. The implications of this race are profound, with the potential to reshape the landscape of British politics.
Why it Matters
The Makerfield by-election represents more than just a local contest; it is a critical juncture for the Labour Party and could herald significant shifts in national leadership. As Burnham stands at the centre of this storm, his actions and the decisions of Labour MPs in the coming days may determine not only the future of the party but also the direction of British governance itself. The stakes are high, and the outcome could reverberate throughout the political landscape, influencing future elections and party dynamics for years to come.