Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has a potential route back to parliament after Labour MP Josh Simons announced he would stand down from his Makerfield seat, triggering a byelection. The move ends weeks of speculation and underscores the precarious position of Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Burnham confirmed he would seek approval from Labour's ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) to stand in the contest. Allies of Starmer indicated he would not block the move, following concerns from MPs across the party. Burnham cited the cost of living crisis as a priority, stating, 'Much bigger change is needed at a national level.'
The byelection in Makerfield, which Labour holds with a majority of just over 5,000, is expected to be fiercely contested. Reform UK, which came second in the seat last time, has pledged to 'throw absolutely everything' at the campaign. Nigel Farage described Burnham as a 'far tougher opponent' than Starmer.
Burnham's return to Westminster could trigger a leadership challenge, with backing from figures including Angela Rayner and Ed Miliband. Wes Streeting, who resigned as health secretary, signalled support for a broad contest. A senior Burnham backer said, 'The whole party is now in the same place on this.'
The earliest Burnham could return to parliament is early July, with a leadership contest potentially following. Starmer's authority has been critically undermined after last week's local election losses and the resignation of several ministers.
