Andy Burnham Backs Keir Starmer for Leader, Wants More Open Party

Andy Burnham, who leads Greater Manchester, says he supports Keir Starmer to stay as the leader. But he also said the Labour party should be more open and include more people in decisions. This comes as some people talk about who could lead the party next.
By Newsroom | UK Politics, Labour Party |

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, has publicly stated his backing for Keir Starmer to continue as Prime Minister. However, Burnham has also emphasized the need for a more inclusive approach in how the Labour party is run. This stance comes amidst ongoing discussions about Starmer's leadership and potential successors within the party.

Burnham backs Starmer to continue as prime minister but urges ‘more inclusive way of running’ Labour party – UK politics live - 1

The political landscape within the Labour party is showing signs of strain. Recent events, including a scandal related to Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to the U.S. due to ties with Jeffrey Epstein, have placed Prime Minister Keir Starmer under significant pressure. This situation has led to speculation and internal discussions about who might replace Starmer should he be compelled to step down. While allies maintain that the immediate danger to his leadership has passed, questions about his future persist.

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Burnham backs Starmer to continue as prime minister but urges ‘more inclusive way of running’ Labour party – UK politics live - 2

Key figures such as Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting are being discussed as potential successors. Rayner faced scrutiny for tax issues, while Streeting has been a focus of media speculation regarding leadership ambitions. Burnham himself has been a subject of leadership rumors, with some MPs reportedly encouraging him to challenge Starmer. Despite these pressures, Burnham has also expressed support for Anas Sarwar's leadership in Scotland, even after Sarwar indicated he no longer backed Starmer. The Welsh First Minister, Eluned Morgan, also affirmed her support for Starmer but stressed the need for him to "deliver for Wales."

Burnham backs Starmer to continue as prime minister but urges ‘more inclusive way of running’ Labour party – UK politics live - 3

Evidence of Internal Dynamics

The internal workings of the Labour party reveal a complex interplay of support and dissent regarding Keir Starmer's leadership.

Burnham backs Starmer to continue as prime minister but urges ‘more inclusive way of running’ Labour party – UK politics live - 4

  • Burnham's Stance: Andy Burnham has consistently voiced support for Keir Starmer to remain Prime Minister. However, his calls for a "more inclusive way of running" the Labour party suggest a desire for broader internal consultation and participation.

  • Leadership Speculation: Reports indicate that several Labour MPs are urging Andy Burnham to challenge Keir Starmer for leadership. This has been a recurring theme, particularly following Labour's autumn conference.

  • Exclusion from Westminster: In a move that some interpret as strategically isolating Burnham, Starmer's team reportedly decided to block his return to Westminster. This action was seen as a way to prevent a protracted leadership battle that could overshadow policy discussions and create public division.

  • Regional Support: Eluned Morgan, the First Minister of Wales, has stated her support for Keir Starmer, but with the condition that he must "deliver for Wales." This highlights regional considerations within the party's broader support base.

The possibility of a leadership change within the Labour party has prompted a closer examination of potential successors.

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  • Potential Replacements: If Keir Starmer were to step aside, figures like Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting are frequently mentioned as contenders. Polls are exploring public opinion on who should lead the party in such a scenario.

  • Burnham's Ambitions: Andy Burnham has not ruled out a leadership bid, though he has also stated that the decision rests with the party. His past roles as Culture Secretary and Health Secretary, alongside his current position as Mayor of Greater Manchester, provide a significant political background.

  • Obstacles to a Challenge: For Burnham to formally challenge Starmer, he would likely need to be a Member of Parliament. This has led to discussions about potential by-election scenarios, though some Manchester MPs have ruled out vacating their seats.

Party Unity and Public Perception

The internal discussions and actions within the Labour party are being closely watched for their impact on party unity and public perception.

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  • "Climate of Fear" Allegations: Andy Burnham has accused Downing Street of fostering a "climate of fear" and contributing to "alienation and demoralisation" among MPs. This suggests a disconnect between the party leadership and its parliamentary members.

  • Focus on Policy: Starmer's allies have attempted to quell leadership speculation, suggesting that the immediate danger has subsided. They aim to shift the focus towards policy and governance, particularly in light of recent political turbulence.

  • Voter Sentiment: Burnham has indicated that voters in the north-west of England do not feel the government is acting in their interest, highlighting a potential gap in understanding or addressing public concerns.

Conclusion

Andy Burnham's public statements indicate a nuanced position: he supports Keir Starmer's premiership but advocates for a more inclusive internal party structure. This occurs against a backdrop of leadership speculation, fueled by internal party dynamics and external pressures, including a recent scandal involving Peter Mandelson. While Starmer's allies assert that his leadership is secure, the ongoing discussions about potential successors and the calls for greater inclusivity suggest that internal party management remains a critical area for attention. The Labour party faces the ongoing challenge of projecting unity and effectively addressing voter concerns while navigating these internal political currents.

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Sources:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Andy Burnham support Keir Starmer?
Yes, Andy Burnham says he supports Keir Starmer to continue as the leader.
Q: What does Andy Burnham want for the Labour party?
He wants the party to be more open and include more people in its decisions.
Q: Is Keir Starmer facing challenges?
There is talk about who might lead the Labour party if Keir Starmer steps down, but his allies say he is safe for now.
Q: Who might lead the Labour party instead of Starmer?
Some people talk about Angela Rayner or Wes Streeting as possible leaders. Andy Burnham is also mentioned.