Andy Burnham launches bid for Commons return in Gorton and Denton by-election
Andy Burnham has officially launched his bid for a sensational Commons return as he looks set to challenge Keir Starmer’s leadership, reports BritPanorama.
The Manchester Mayor has notified the National Executive Committee (NEC) of his intention to run in the forthcoming by-election scheduled for May 7. Burnham, who served as an MP for Leigh from 2001 to 2017, must secure NEC approval before he is permitted to stand for election.
In a post on X, he stated: “I have today written to the Chair of Labour’s National Executive Committee seeking permission to enter the selection process for a candidate for the forthcoming Gorton and Denton by-election.” To formalise his candidacy, he will need to submit an application by midnight tomorrow.
The Gorton and Denton seat became vacant after Andrew Gwynne, the previous MP, resigned on health grounds. The timing of this by-election coincides with local elections expected to be challenging for Labour.
Burnham’s decision has stirred mixed reactions among allies of Prime Minister Starmer. Some factions are reportedly eager to prevent Burnham’s re-entry into Parliament, with discussions emerging about potentially nominating other candidates, including footballer Gary Neville. Rumours indicate that the resistance to Burnham underscores concerns about his capacity to directly challenge Starmer’s leadership.
However, Labour MPs have cautioned against blocking Burnham, suggesting this could lead to further discord within the party. A growing sentiment among Burnham’s supporters sees any attempt to obstruct his candidacy as a “democratic outrage.”
Angela Rayner is expected to show her support for Burnham at Labour’s North West regional conference. Her endorsement could prove pivotal in bolstering his bid. Parties within the Labour party emphasize the importance of allowing members to choose their representatives freely.
In the wake of Gwynne’s resignation, a potential leadership vacuum has emerged, raising concerns in Downing Street about possible infighting within Labour. Burnham’s anticipated entry into the race adds a critical layer of urgency to the party’s internal dynamics, coinciding with Starmer’s declining approval ratings and worries surrounding the party’s performance in upcoming elections.
As the political landscape evolves, Burnham’s aspirations for a Commons return might significantly influence Labour’s direction, especially if the anticipated local elections yield unfavorable results for the party. Given the stakes, this by-election presents not only a chance for Burnham but also for the broader Labour party to reassess its leadership and strategic approach.
While Burnham expressed his commitment to public service and supporting government initiatives, the potential implications of his candidacy are set to resonate within both the party and the larger political sphere, marking it as a pivotal moment in Labour’s ongoing evolution.
This situation highlights the complex interplay within the Labour party as it navigates leadership challenges and seeks to maintain unity while addressing pressing electoral concerns.
