Former health secretary Wes Streeting has declared his support for Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham to contest the upcoming byelection in Makerfield. Streeting described Burnham as one of the Labour Party’s “best players on the pitch” and argued that he represents the “best chance of winning” the seat.
The bid for parliament follows the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, who stood down on Thursday specifically to pave the way for Burnham’s return. Simons stated that his decision was one of the “most difficult” he has made, but expressed absolute confidence in Burnham’s ability to win.
If successful in returning to the House of Commons, Burnham is widely expected to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the leadership of the Labour Party.
Internal Party Support and Hurdles
Support for Burnham extends beyond Streeting. Deputy leader Lucy Powell told a Fire Brigades Union conference in Coventry that she fully supports Burnham’s return, stating she has it on “good authority” that there will be “absolutely no attempt to stop” him from standing.
Joanne Thomas, general secretary of the union Usdaw, also confirmed that her organization’s National Executive Committee (NEC) representatives will vote to allow the mayor to seek selection. Luke Akehurst, an MP and NEC member, added that he expects Burnham to be granted a waiver to stand despite his role as a metro mayor.
The decision rests with Labour’s NEC officer committee, which is expected to meet this weekend. The full national executive committee is scheduled to hold its next meeting on Tuesday.
Pressure on the Prime Minister
The movement to bring Burnham back to Westminster coincides with significant turmoil within the cabinet. Wes Streeting recently resigned as health secretary, stating it would have been “dishonourable” to remain in his post after losing confidence in Keir Starmer.
James Murray has since been appointed as the new health secretary. While Housing Secretary Steve Reed admitted that the Prime Minister is “unpopular,” he urged colleagues to avoid “internal-facing nonsense” and focus on the country.
External pressure has also mounted, with US President Donald Trump describing Starmer’s survival as a “tough thing” due to perceived weaknesses in immigration and energy policy, specifically criticizing the use of windmills and the failure to open oil drilling in the North Sea.
Market Reaction and Opposition Strategy
Financial markets responded sharply to the possibility of a leadership change. UK government borrowing costs jumped and the pound fell to its lowest level in five weeks, hitting $1.333 against the US dollar.
The yield on UK 10-year bonds rose 11 basis points to 5.11%, reflecting trader concerns over potential borrowing increases under a new prime minister.
Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has pledged to “throw absolutely everything” at the Makerfield contest. While Reform candidate Matt Goodwin has ruled himself out to support a local candidate, Robert Kenyon—a former army soldier and NHS worker—is noted as a potential strong contender for Reform.
Potential Next Steps
The immediate focus shifts to the NEC’s decision this weekend regarding Burnham’s waiver. If granted, the party may face a highly publicized battle in Makerfield that could serve as a proxy for the wider leadership struggle.
the government faces a challenging weekend of policing in London, with Prime Minister Starmer warning of a “fight for the soul of this country” ahead of a “Unite the Kingdom” march and other simultaneous protests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Josh Simons resign as an MP?
Josh Simons stood down from his seat in Makerfield to allow Andy Burnham the opportunity to stand as a candidate in a byelection and potentially challenge for the Labour leadership.
What was the market’s reaction to Andy Burnham’s potential return?
UK borrowing costs increased, bond prices dropped, and the pound fell to a five-week low of $1.333.
What is the position of the Labour NEC on Andy Burnham’s candidacy?
The NEC officer committee is expected to meet this weekend to decide if Burnham can stand, while some members, such as Luke Akehurst, expect him to be granted a waiver.
Do you believe a change in Labour leadership is necessary to address current policy challenges?
