In a recent statement, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer indicated that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham could seek a return to Parliament, albeit not until after his mayoral term expires in May 2028. This remark follows Starmer’s controversial decision to block Burnham’s candidacy for the Gorton and Denton by-election, a move that has drawn criticism from numerous party members.
Burnham’s By-Election Bid Thwarted
Starmer’s comments came just days after he, along with the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), voted decisively against allowing Burnham to stand in the upcoming by-election. The vote concluded with an overwhelming majority of eight against one, as the party leadership aimed to avoid what they termed an “unnecessary election” to fill Burnham’s position.
The decision has not been well-received within Labour circles, with warnings emerging about potential internal strife. Observers suggest that this could accelerate pressures on Starmer, who is already facing scrutiny regarding his leadership. The party risks losing a seat that has historically been a Labour stronghold, heightening the stakes for Starmer as he prepares to address questions about the fallout from this decision.
The By-Election Landscape
As Starmer embarks on his first visit to China as Prime Minister in eight years, he has asserted that Labour remains the only viable option to counter Nigel Farage’s Reform UK in the forthcoming by-election. The seat was previously held by Labour’s Andrew Gwynne, who secured 51 per cent of the vote last year. However, recent polling indicates a decline in Labour’s support, with Reform now emerging as a serious contender.
Starmer has framed the by-election as a contest of values, pitting Labour’s commitment to addressing the cost of living against the divisive politics he associates with Reform. He underscored that the election should focus on Labour’s record in the constituency, positioning the party as the guardian against what he describes as Reform’s “toxic division”.
Speculation on Burnham’s Future
Despite the current political landscape, Starmer expressed that Burnham’s future in Parliament is a decision for him to make once his mayoral duties conclude. He acknowledged Burnham’s previous contributions to Parliament, highlighting their collaboration on challenging legislation during his tenure as an MP. Starmer’s comments reflect a willingness to welcome Burnham back into the fold, should he choose to pursue that path.
In a recent private fundraising dinner, former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner hinted at potential unrest within the party, stating that Labour’s leadership must “do better.” This sentiment underscores a growing concern among party members about the leadership’s direction.
Why it Matters
The implications of this political manoeuvring extend beyond Burnham’s immediate aspirations. The decision to block his candidacy has sparked significant debate within Labour, revealing fractures that could jeopardise the party’s stability ahead of the next general election. As Labour grapples with declining popularity in key constituencies, the challenge remains to unify its base and present a compelling vision to voters, particularly as rival parties seek to capitalise on any perceived weakness.
