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Sir Keir Starmer has cautioned Andy Burnham against immediately challenging his leadership if Burnham secures a seat as an MP. He emphasized that both Burnham and the Labour Party should instead concentrate on the forthcoming Greater Manchester mayoral election. If Burnham wins the Makerfield seat on Thursday, he will need to step down as Manchester mayor, triggering a by-election expected by early August.
Burnham is widely expected to position himself as a contender for the party leadership and the prime ministership once he enters Parliament. Meanwhile, from the G7 summit, Starmer described any leadership contest as detrimental to the country and reaffirmed his intention to defend his position. He highlighted the significance of the impending mayoral election, stating that securing a Labour victory there would require considerable effort from the party.
In addition to these warnings, the prime minister suggested that Burnham could be offered a cabinet position if successful in Makerfield, expressing hope that Burnham wins and contributes significantly to a future Labour government. However, this issue is further complicated by Labour MP Wes Streeting, who announced his readiness to launch a leadership challenge as early as next week. Streeting, who resigned as health secretary last month, has chosen to wait until after the Makerfield by-election to allow Burnham an opportunity to stand.
Addressing Streeting’s intentions in an interview with BBC’s Newsnight, Starmer referred to ongoing speculation about Westminster by-elections but redirected focus to the upcoming Manchester mayoral by-election triggered by Burnham’s potential win. He urged the party to prioritize this crucial contest. The prime minister’s remarks suggest the narrative he will present if Burnham prevails in Makerfield. Some Labour members worry that Reform UK might win the mayoralty, despite Burnham’s previous landslide victory in 2024. Supporters of Burnham argue the mayoralty’s importance reinforces the case for his expedited rise to prime ministership. Reflecting on his own leadership, Starmer expressed deep commitment and gratitude, calling the role of prime minister “the privilege of my life” and a daily reminder of his dedication to public service
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