Andy Burnham is scheduled to visit Westminster on Monday for crucial discussions with Keir Starmer regarding his leadership position. The Makerfield MP is preparing to be sworn in as an MP in the upcoming week and intends to engage with the Prime Minister to request a clear timeline for his resignation.
Despite Keir Starmer’s firm stance against any leadership challenges, the significant victory secured by Mr. Burnham in the Makerfield by-election has led to increased calls from Labour members and officials for the Prime Minister to step down. Several MPs who previously rejected calls for a leadership election have now reconsidered their position, with former home secretary Alan Johnson advocating for Mr. Starmer to step aside.
Efforts to remove the Prime Minister are being framed as beneficial for the party, emphasizing the necessity for a smooth transition to avoid damaging the Government. A Labour insider highlighted that both Andy and Wes are allowing the Prime Minister space to make the right decision, emphasizing the importance of avoiding a disruptive and divisive leadership change process.
Another Labour source cautioned against pressuring Keir Starmer to resist stepping down, suggesting that those urging him to stay are driven by factional interests rather than his well-being. Broadcaster and Labour peer Ayesha Hazarika also weighed in, suggesting that the Prime Minister could secure a positive legacy by gracefully stepping aside to allow for new leadership better equipped to challenge political opponents.
The focus has also shifted towards the upcoming by-election for the Greater Manchester mayoralty following Mr. Burnham’s election, with the voting scheduled for July 30 and Labour expected to announce its candidate on June 26.