Full Breakdown
Makerfield By-Election: Reform UK Targets Andy Burnham’s Return to Parliament
5/17/2026, 8:52:55 PM
The Contest at Hand
The resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons triggered a by-election in Makerfield. Simons, who won seat in 2023 with a 5,399-vote majority over Reform UK, stepped down to allow Andy Burnham to seek return to Parliament. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said it will “throw everything” at election, criticising Labour, Burnham said he aims to regain trust in Makerfield and reform Labour.
Political Background and Context
Makerfield lies in the former Red-Wall area where Labour suffered heavy losses in the 2022 local elections. In the latest local contest, Reform UK secured 50.4 % of the vote across eight wards, while Labour obtained 22.7 %.
Key Players
Nigel Farage leads Reform UK, which has targeted Labour seats in the North West. Andy Burnham, Mayor and former Labour MP for Leigh (2001-2017), seeks Labour’s nomination for Makerfield. Josh Simons, the resigning Labour MP for Makerfield, was appointed a minister in Sir Keir Starmer’s September reshuffle. Labour is nationally led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Official Statements & Party Positions
Farage said Reform UK will “throw everything” at election, criticising Labour, Burnham said he aims to regain trust in Makerfield and reform Labour. Simons’ resignation letter said he was stepping aside to let Burnham contest seat. Labour’s NEC to approve Burnham’s candidacy despite blockage in Gorton & Denton.
Criticism & Opposition
Reform insiders argue Labour’s swapping of MPs undermines accountability, urging check with Angela Rayner. Scarlett Maguire said Burnham’s run is “about as good as it gets for Labour,” underscoring limited options. MP Wes Streeting’s resignation as Secretary has fueled speculation of leadership challenge to Sir Keir Starmer.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We look forward to the contest and we will throw absolutely everything at it.” — Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader
- “We will change Labour for the better and make it a party you can believe in again.” — Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor
- “I am putting the people I represent and the country I love first and will be resigning as MP for Makerfield.” — Josh Simons, outgoing MP
- “There are practically no 'safe' seats left, but an Andy Burnham run in a Greater Manchester seat is about as good as it gets for Labour.” — Scarlett Maguire, polling guru
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The Labour NEC has not yet approved Burnham’s candidacy, leaving party’s candidate undecided. Election date not announced. Reform UK expects to win, but no poll measures Burnham’s vote. Survation survey suggests Burnham could beat Sir Keir Starmer among Labour members, though it does not reflect wider electorate.
What’s Next
Reform UK is mounting a campaign in Makerfield, while Labour awaits the NEC’s ruling on Burnham’s candidacy. By-election date will be set in coming weeks. Results will be scrutinised for Labour’s vulnerability in former Red-Wall seats and could affect leadership contest involving Sir Keir Starmer and Wes Streeting.
