Prime Minister Starmer Pledges Campaign Support for Burnham in Makerfield By-election
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced his intention to campaign for Andy Burnham in the forthcoming Makerfield by-election. This commitment comes amidst significant pressure on Starmer’s leadership, following a series of poor election results and resignations within his government.
Sir Keir stated that the Labour Party needed to “all pull together and fight” in the 18 June contest, telling reporters in Essex, “I want to be part of that, of course I do.” A spokesperson for Mr Burnham welcomed the support, noting that “Anyone who wants to embrace Andy’s campaign message is welcome on the campaign.”
The Prime Minister's decision to actively support Burnham in Makerfield, Greater Manchester, is noteworthy given that Burnham is widely seen as a prospective contender for the Labour leadership if he secures a parliamentary seat. Sir Keir’s leadership has faced scrutiny following a substantial loss of nearly 1,500 council seats in England and losing power in Wales. Wes Streeting's resignation as Health Secretary and criticism of government “drift” further highlight the internal challenges facing Starmer.
In contrast to Starmer's message of party unity and focus on recent economic figures, Mr Burnham has publicly articulated a different vision. He recently told a Manchester radio outlet that Britain had been “on the wrong path for 40 years” and, in a prior speech, indicated that “a vote for me will be a vote to change Labour.”
Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has already been campaigning for his party's Makerfield candidate, Robert Kenyon, describing the contest as a “David versus Goliath battle.” Reform UK has pledged to “throw the kitchen sink” at the by-election, prioritising social housing in the region. The Green Party of England and Wales is currently seeking a new candidate after their initial selection withdrew.
