Andy Burnham has no immediate plans to challenge the Prime Minister within the first 72 hours following a potential victory in the Makerfield by-election, as per information obtained by the Mirror. The Labour leadership contender has expressed his willingness to participate in any leadership competition to replace Keir Starmer. Nevertheless, it is indicated that if he emerges victorious in the Makerfield by-election, Burnham is not intending to announce a challenge in the initial days.
Instead, the Mayor of Greater Manchester aims to encourage Starmer to outline a timetable for his departure. Despite intentions to remove the PM, the Burnham campaign is focused on maintaining positive relations with Downing Street.
A source close to Burnham emphasized that any speculation about an immediate challenge is baseless. Burnham has consistently prioritized fostering a constructive rapport with Starmer and prefers to engage in dialogue with him first if successful. While several cabinet ministers have actively campaigned for Burnham, the PM has not made a similar effort, despite previous promises to do so.
Recently, the PM hinted at offering Burnham a Cabinet position upon his potential return to Westminster. Emphasizing his determination to contest and triumph in any leadership battle, the PM cautioned potential challengers and highlighted the upcoming tough mayoral election in Greater Manchester if Burnham wins the by-election.
When asked about potentially including Burnham in his Cabinet, Starmer expressed his admiration for Burnham and stated his desire for Burnham to play a significant role in the government.
However, a senior source ruled out Burnham assuming the role, citing his advantage of being disconnected from the government’s failures. Meanwhile, Wes Streeting has indicated readiness to initiate a Labour leadership challenge against Starmer as early as the following week.
Streeting suggested giving the PM time to reflect before triggering any challenge and stressed the need for certainty and decisive action. Despite having the necessary support to initiate a challenge against the PM, Streeting refrained from doing so during his resignation, citing the upcoming by-election as a factor.
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