Andy Burnham has announced his intention to stand in the Gorton and Denton byelection in east Manchester, after months of speculation that he hoped to challenge prime minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership.
Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, had until 5pm on Saturday to declare his intention to run. He waited until the last moment to announce his plans to seek the candidacy as speculation over his decision reached fever pitch.
In a statement, Burnham said that, if elected, he would “support the work of government not undermine it”. He added that he had “passed this assurance” to the prime minister.
Burnham’s application could still be blocked by Labour’s national executive committee (NEC). The party’s ruling body is dominated by Starmer allies who may try to prevent Burnham’s return to parliament, although a growing number of MPs have expressed opposition to this. Read More…
