UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended Labour’s decision to prevent Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, from standing in an upcoming by-election. Burnham is widely viewed by commentators as a potential future leadership contender, though Labour has said the decision was based on electoral focus.
Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC), which includes Starmer, ruled that preventing Burnham’s candidacy would avoid an unnecessary mayoral election, arguing party resources should focus on upcoming contests in Wales, Scotland and English local authorities.
Key developments:
• Keir Starmer said a mayoral contest would divert money and campaign staff from “must-win” elections.
• He rejected claims the move was aimed at blocking a leadership challenge, citing Labour’s rules against avoidable elections.
• Several Labour MPs criticised the decision as factional, warning it could risk the seat to Reform.
• Others backed the NEC, arguing Burnham lacks sufficient parliamentary support for a leadership bid.
Follow on social media TikTok@tut0ughInstagram@tut0ugh Threads@tut0ugh X@tut0ugh YouTube@tut0ugh
tut0ugh 