Senior Labour MPs Al Carns, Darren Jones Consider Leadership Bids Against Andy Burnham
At least two senior Labour Members of Parliament are exploring potential leadership campaigns to preclude Andy Burnham from becoming Prime Minister without a formal challenge. This follows Sir Keir Starmer’s announcement of his resignation on Monday.
Potential Challengers Emerge
Former defence minister Al Carns has indicated he is considering a bid, whilst Sir Keir Starmer’s Chief Secretary, Darren Jones, has also not definitively ruled out a challenge. Labour MPs increasingly anticipate Burnham could assume the premiership as early as 17 July, coinciding with the close of nominations for the new leader.
However, a substantial segment of the party remains uneasy with the prospect of a leader whose policy proposals have not been rigorously tested in a leadership race. Jones, a close associate of Sir Keir, is being urged by some MPs to stand, though this remains an outside possibility. Carns, who recently resigned as armed forces minister over defence spending, also expressed interest in the top position, stating he was evaluating the strategic direction required for the party's future objectives.
Leadership Contest Timetable
Sir Keir has instructed Labour’s governing body to establish a timetable for his replacement. Nominations are scheduled to open on 9 July and conclude by 16 July, the day before the summer recess. Prospective candidates must secure the support of a minimum of 81 Labour MPs by this deadline.
Burnham is widely regarded as the frontrunner, having secured an emphatic victory in last week's Makerfield by-election. The former Greater Manchester mayor, who was sworn in as an MP on Monday, has confirmed his intention to stand. Wes Streeting, previously considered a primary rival, has since offered his support to Burnham, increasing the likelihood of an uncontested 'coronation'.
John Slinger, Labour MP for Rugby, articulated the sentiment of many within the party who believe a full leadership contest is 'necessary' to subject aspirants to the highest office to appropriate scrutiny. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch criticised Labour’s policies, asserting that 'Labour MPs only want higher taxes to hand out more benefits... These are Labour’s choices and their values, regardless of who is running the party.' Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey expressed public weariness with a 'merry-go-round of prime ministers'. Reform leader Nigel Farage demanded a general election, whilst Green Party leader Zack Polanski suggested the 'jury is out' on whether Burnham could deliver 'meaningful change'.
Burnham is expected to outline his economic strategy in an upcoming speech, promising growth whilst adhering to government fiscal rules that aim to restrict borrowing and fund day-to-day spending from tax revenues by the end of the decade. Allies of Burnham state that no decisions have been made regarding potential cabinet appointments, including the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Sir Keir, elected Labour leader in April 2020, became Prime Minister on 5 July 2024 following a landslide general election victory. His departure means the UK will soon see its seventh Prime Minister since 2016. Sir Keir and his wife Victoria hosted No 10 staff on Monday evening, thanking them for their support.
