Sir Keir Starmer will not attempt to block Andy Burnham from becoming the Labour candidate in the Makerfield by-election, according to reports. The Greater Manchester mayor has confirmed he will seek permission from Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) to stand in the seat being vacated by Josh Simons, who is stepping down to allow Burnham to return to Parliament and potentially challenge Starmer's leadership.
Streeting's Resignation Sparks Leadership Speculation
In a dramatic turn of events, Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned on Thursday, citing a loss of confidence in the prime minister's leadership. In a scathing resignation letter, Streeting accused Starmer of creating a "vacuum where the country needed a vision" and blamed the government's unpopularity for the party's poor election results. He specifically criticised the decision to cut the winter fuel allowance, a policy he had previously defended as necessary to fund the NHS and schools.
Downing Street has stated that Starmer is determined to fight on, with Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, a close ally, insisting the prime minister has a "deep sense of duty to the country." Deputy Leader Angela Rayner has not ruled out running in a potential leadership contest.
How a Leadership Contest Could Unfold
Under Labour rules, a leadership challenge can be triggered if 20% of Labour MPs (currently around 96) nominate a challenger. The number of MPs calling for Starmer to resign has now reached 96, including Streeting and other prominent figures. If a contest is triggered, candidates would need nominations from at least 10% of MPs to stand. A ballot of party members would then decide the winner.
Burnham's move to stand in Makerfield is seen as a direct challenge to Starmer, with the mayor positioning himself as a unifying figure who can take on Reform UK in the by-election. Labour MPs have urged the party not to block Burnham, arguing the seat is winnable only with a strong candidate.
Economic Concerns Amid Political Turmoil
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has warned that a leadership election could damage Britain's economic recovery, with new GDP figures showing unexpected growth. She urged Labour frontbenchers not to put the economy at risk for political ambition.
Meanwhile, Reform UK has opened applications for candidates in the Makerfield by-election, with party figures vowing a "tight fight." Scottish Labour has not ruled out allowing Burnham to stand in a Scottish by-election if necessary.
The coming days will be critical for Starmer's survival, as he faces the prospect of a formal leadership challenge and a by-election that could reshape the political landscape.
