Story perspectives

Andy Burnham cleared for Makerfield seat, eyeing Starmer challenge.

5/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Labour's National Executive Committee approved Andy Burnham's candidacy for the Makerfield byelection before he submitted an application.
The Greater Manchester mayor was cleared to stand in the Makerfield parliamentary byelection.
His return to Westminster could enable him to challenge Keir Starmer for Labour leadership, which needs 81 Labour MPs.
Critics warn that a mayoral election would be required to replace Burnham, creating a costly, destabilising process for Greater Manchester.

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Story summary

Labour's National Executive Committee approved Andy Burnham's candidacy for the Makerfield byelection before he submitted an application.
The Greater Manchester mayor was cleared to stand in the Makerfield parliamentary byelection.
His return to Westminster could enable him to challenge Keir Starmer for Labour leadership, which needs 81 Labour MPs.
Critics warn that a mayoral election would be required to replace Burnham, creating a costly, destabilising process for Greater Manchester.