The Labour Party is on the brink of a decision that could reshape its future, as Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, awaits approval to stand as an MP in an upcoming by-election. But here's where it gets controversial: allies of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer are reportedly considering blocking Burnham's bid, fearing he might use his return to Westminster as a springboard for a leadership challenge. This move has already sparked outrage among some Labour MPs, setting the stage for a tense meeting of the party's ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) at 11:00 GMT.
Burnham, a former cabinet minister under Gordon Brown, has framed his return to Parliament as a way to support the Labour government, not undermine it. In a letter shared on social media, he highlighted a 'direct threat to everything Greater Manchester has always been about' from divisive politics, and expressed his belief that national-level changes are needed. He left Westminster nearly a decade ago, disillusioned with its effectiveness for his region, and has since championed a different approach as mayor.
And this is the part most people miss: the decision to block Burnham isn't just about his ambitions—it's a calculated risk. Allowing him to run could strengthen Labour in a potentially tough by-election, but it might also pave the way for a future leadership contest. Conversely, blocking him risks alienating a popular figure and causing internal strife. The fact that Starmer's allies are willing to take this risk underscores their concern about Burnham's potential challenge.
The by-election in Gorton and Denton, triggered by Andrew Gwynne's resignation on health grounds, is no small matter. As a directly elected mayor, Burnham needs NEC approval to enter the race. If successful, he would have to resign his mayoral post, triggering a costly new election—a point critics have been quick to highlight. The last mayoral election cost taxpayers around £4.7 million, and some argue Labour can't afford the expense.
Labour MPs are divided. Some see Burnham as a strong candidate who could bolster the party's position, while others worry that vacating the mayoralty could open the door for Reform UK or another party to gain ground. London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan supports Burnham's bid, but Deputy Labour Leader Lucy Powell has called for unity behind Starmer, urging members to avoid 'in-fighting.' Energy Secretary Ed Miliband praised Burnham as 'a massive asset,' while Health Secretary Wes Streeting cautioned about the broader implications, including the potential mayoral election.
The stakes are high. Gorton and Denton has traditionally been a Labour stronghold, with a 13,000-vote majority in 2024, but the party's popularity has since waned. Reform UK and the Green Party, who placed second and third in the general election, pose significant challenges. John McTernan, Tony Blair's former political secretary, believes Burnham's bid is in the party's interest, citing his popularity and the need to counter Reform's rise. However, Labour MP Jo White questioned whether Burnham should risk losing the mayoralty to pursue his parliamentary ambitions.
Here’s the burning question: Is blocking Burnham a necessary precaution or a self-inflicted wound for Labour? Could his return to Westminster unite the party or deepen its divisions? And what does this say about the party's readiness to confront internal challenges while battling external opponents? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
