Andy Burnham Allies Position for Influence as Labour Leadership Bid Looms
Andy Burnham's recent by-election triumph in Makerfield has immediately intensified speculation regarding a future Labour leadership bid. With the path seemingly clear, several key figures within his orbit are understood to be ready for prominent positions should he ascend to Downing Street.
Potential Cabinet and Senior Roles
Jessica Morden, former transport secretary, became a pivotal 'soft left' power broker on the backbenches after her resignation in November 2024 due to a fraud conviction. She was central to the 2025 rebellion against welfare cuts and her significant role in the Makerfield campaign suggests a major cabinet appointment.
Maria Midgley, MP for Knowsley since 2024, has a long history within the Labour movement, including stints with the TUC, Unite, and Jeremy Corbyn's team. She is reportedly being considered for Chief Whip or even a unique position as Political Secretary in Downing Street.
Faiza Shaheen, who resigned as a junior communities minister after the May elections, is now developing policy for a potential Burnham government. Her background includes civil service work and leading the New Economics Foundation think tank.
Josh Simons, the former MP who relinquished his seat for Burnham, is said to be contributing to policy. Despite an ideological background differing from Shaheen's, his rapid political career — including roles with Jeremy Corbyn and a pro-Starmer think tank — makes him a likely candidate for a Downing Street role.
Key Advisers and Allies
Bev Green, currently Burnham's deputy mayor for policing and crime, is reportedly canvassing MPs on policy ideas and is seen as a potential Downing Street appointee. Her 12 years as an MP, including a shadow cabinet role, provide significant experience.
Ken Lee, Burnham's closest adviser, managed his 2010 leadership campaign and has run his mayoral office since 2017. His inclusion in a Burnham Downing Street is considered a certainty.
Lucy Powell, the independently-elected deputy leader, holds influence over party matters. Her longstanding collaboration with Burnham as a fellow Manchester MP suggests a significant government role if he becomes prime minister.
Ed Miliband, a former Labour leader, has reportedly aligned with Burnham's vision for a more interventionist state. Suspicions persist among some former colleagues regarding his recent conduct as energy secretary, with suggestions he may covet the Chancellor position, leveraging his past advisory role with Gordon Brown at the Treasury.
Clare Alexander, the current Transport Secretary, is one of only four MPs to have supported Burnham in both his 2010 and 2015 leadership bids, marking her for a senior cabinet post.
Neal Lawson, founder of the progressive pressure group Compass and a leading figure in the Burnham-aligned organisation Mainstream, presents a more complex case. His ideas on electoral reform may not align with others in Burnham's circle, making his potential role uncertain.
Burnham has also sought high-level economic counsel, including from Lord O'Neill, a former Treasury minister, and Robert Hughes, former chairman of the Office of Budget Responsibility, indicating a focus on economic stability for a national platform.
