Andy Burnham has been granted permission to stand in Labour's candidate selection process for the Makerfield by-election, moving him one step closer to challenging Sir Keir Starmer for the party leadership. The Greater Manchester mayor announced on Thursday his intention to return to Westminster after Labour MP Josh Simons agreed to step down.
Political Reactions and Support
Education Secretary Bridget Philipson told BBC Radio 4's The Week in Westminster that Burnham would be a "strong candidate" but reaffirmed her "full support" for Sir Keir. Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the by-election as "tough" due to competition from Reform UK, while touting Burnham as one of Labour's "best players."
Streeting dramatically quit his ministerial role on Thursday and is widely expected to mount a leadership challenge. His allies confirmed to The Independent: "Wes will be a candidate when the contest comes."
Leadership Contest Looms
The prospect of a leadership challenge to Sir Keir Starmer is intensifying after Burnham was cleared to run for selection. Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) granted Burnham permission, with applications closing on Monday and an endorsed candidate expected by Thursday. The by-election could take place as early as June 18.
Makerfield is typically a safe Labour seat, but the party expects a stiff challenge from Reform UK. Josh Simons secured a majority of just 5,399 over Nigel Farage's party at the 2024 general election. Since then, Labour's polling collapse and Reform's surge have reversed their positions.
Data and Obstacles
Andy Burnham faces several hurdles on his path to Westminster. Winning the by-election against Reform UK is critical. The by-election is likely to be held on Thursday, June 18, with Labour selecting their candidate after a local hustings on May 21.
Usdaw union general secretary Joanne Thomas announced her union would back Burnham's bid, stating: "There is a consensus building that it would be wrong for members in Makerfield to not have the opportunity to select Andy Burnham."
Cost and Implications
The combined costs of the Greater Manchester mayoral election and the by-election could reach £5 million. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority reported the 2024 mayoral election cost £4.7 million, while the by-election budget is £226,208. Additional costs include postage for candidates.
Donald Trump has weighed in, warning it will be "tough" for Sir Keir to survive as prime minister, particularly if he fails to address immigration and energy policy. The prime minister faces immense pressure following Labour's disastrous local election results.
