Starmer's Backers Begin 'Block Andy Burnham' Effort to Block Mayor's Parliamentary Return
Close associates of Labour leader Keir Starmer have reportedly started a concerted effort to stop Andy Burnham, the Labour Greater Manchester Mayor, from making a comeback to parliament. This action follows the resignation of a Manchester MP, which has prompted an upcoming by-election.
Major Barriers in the Selection Process
Multiple figures on the party's powerful national executive committee (NEC) have apparently suggested it would be extremely difficult for Mr. Burnham to navigate the candidate selection process. This is primarily due to the sizable number of Starmer loyalists on the body who are anxious to head off any future challenge to Starmer's leadership.
The Labour hierarchy is said to have sprung into action following the announcement of the MP's planned departure, with party figures and MPs raising concerns about the considerable financial cost and electoral danger of a resulting election for mayor in Greater Manchester.
The Mayor's Aspirations and Party Concerns
Andy Burnham has been open about his national ambitions. Last year, he prompted consternation within No 10 and among cabinet ministers when he stated that numerous MPs had urged him to stand for the Labour leadership.
It has long been believed that he is aiming for a return to parliament to potentially stand for the party leadership should a contest to Sir Keir arise. However, allies of the Greater Manchester Mayor have cautioned against overstating the extent of any scheming, stating he is deeply committed to his job as mayor and would only return Westminster if he felt he had something to contribute.
"People want to paint him as scheming and plotting but that’s absolutely not where he is. He loves being mayor of Manchester. It would only ever be an option if felt he had something to offer," a supporter stated.
Current Climate and Public Approval
Amid polls suggesting Sir Keir is unpopular and many MPs despondent about Labour's prospects at the forthcoming election, Andy Burnham stands out as the sole senior Labour figure with consistently positive public approval ratings.
If Mr. Burnham choose to stand, several hurdles stand in his way. He would need to be approved by the NEC—where the chances are stacked against him—and then secure victory in the by-election against challenges from Reform and pro-Gaza independents, all prior to any potential leadership challenge.
The 'Stop Andy' Campaign
High-ranking Labour sources have indicated that a "Block Burnham" operation is already in progress, with the party machinery being closely managed by key allies of the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister himself commented that the byelection process was in its "initial phases" and told his MPs to stop talking about potential contests for the leadership.
Andy Burnham, speaking before the MP's departure was finalised, told reporters: "People shouldn’t rush to conclusions. I have been very focused on my role as mayor of Greater Manchester."
Financial and Political Dangers
NEC members have reportedly cited not only personal opposition towards Mr. Burnham but also the prohibitive cost of a by-election for mayor in Greater Manchester. This could redirect around £500,000 in party funding from other crucial elections across the country.
"It is deeply selfish of Andy to want to run for this – costing us tens of thousands we don’t have and diverting activist resources... It is absurd beyond description and cannot be allowed," an insider claimed.
A number of insiders also shared concerns about Reform UK potentially fill any vacancy left by Mr. Burnham, which would represent a significant symbolic victory for them.
Role of the Unions and Democratic Concerns
As a publicly elected mayor, Mr. Burnham would require the NEC's permission to stand. There is also speculation the committee could enforce an all-female shortlist to prevent his candidacy.
However, a supporter warned against assuming the NEC would simply block his candidacy, despite Sir Keir's team is largely believed to dominate it.
The unions occupy a sizable number of seats on the NEC. While the biggest unions are currently remaining quiet, insiders indicated they would be uncomfortable with anything perceived as interference from Downing Street.
The general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union stated: "It would be a democratic outrage if Andy Burnham was blocked... Our union will fiercely resist any attempts to stitch up the selection. It’s vital that there is a full and open democratic procedure."
By-election Battle
The constituency in question has a considerable Labour lead. However, Reform is likely to launch a strong campaign, capitalising on support in one part of the constituency. Labour believes it is on stronger footing in the more populous Greater Manchester section, though it could face a challenge from independent candidates.
Should Mr. Burnham re-enter the Commons, he would need the backing of 80 Labour MPs to launch a leadership challenge, a hurdle that is not guaranteed given he is viewed with scepticism by some on the parliamentary party.
The resigning MP confirmed he was resigning due to deteriorating health, which had made it impossible for him to continue in his role. He also remains subject to a parliamentary standards investigation concerning his membership in an inappropriate online group.
