Starmer's Allies Begin 'Block Andy Burnham' Drive to Prevent Manchester Mayor's Commons Comeback
Loyalists of Prime Minister Keir Starmer have allegedly kicked off a coordinated effort to prevent Andy Burnham, the Labour Party Mayor of Greater Manchester, from making a return to parliament. This move follows the stepping down of a Manchester MP, which has triggered an upcoming by-election.
Major Barriers in the Selection Procedure
Several figures on the Labour Party's powerful national executive committee (NEC) have reportedly predicted it would be extremely difficult for Mr. Burnham to successfully pass through the selection process. This is largely due to the significant number of supporters of the Prime Minister on the committee who are desperate to avoid any future challenge to Starmer's leadership.
The party apparatus reportedly swung into action following the announcement of the MP's planned departure, with officials and MPs voicing warnings about the considerable expense and political risk of a resulting election for mayor in Greater Manchester.
Burnham's Ambitions and Party Concerns
Andy Burnham has been open about his political ambitions. Previously, he prompted outrage within No 10 and among cabinet ministers when he stated that many MPs had urged him to stand for the party leadership.
There has long been speculation that he is seeking a seat in the Commons to possibly stand for the Labour leadership if a contest to Sir Keir emerge. Nevertheless, supporters of the Mayor have cautioned against exaggerating the level of any scheming, suggesting he is deeply committed to his current role and would only return national politics 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 source close to Burnham remarked.
Political Landscape and Public Approval
Amid polls suggesting Sir Keir is struggling in the polls and many MPs despondent about Labour's prospects at the next election, Andy Burnham stands out as the only prominent Labour figure with favourable ratings with the public.
Should Mr. Burnham decide to run, multiple obstacles remain. He would need to be approved by the NEC—where the chances are not in his favour—and then secure victory in the by-election against competition from Reform and independent candidates, all prior to any possible bid for the leadership.
The 'Stop Andy' Campaign
Senior Labour sources have indicated that a "Block Burnham" operation is already under way, with the party's organisation being closely managed by key allies of the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister himself commented that the by-election procedure was in its "early stages" and told his MPs to stop talking about potential contests for the leadership.
Andy Burnham, speaking before the MP's departure was confirmed, 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
Figures on the committee have reportedly cited not only personal opposition towards Mr. Burnham but also the prohibitive cost of a mayoral byelection in Greater Manchester. This could divert around ÂŁ500,000 in party funding from other key electoral battles 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 sources also expressed fears about Nigel Farage’s party potentially fill any vacancy created by Mr. Burnham, which would represent a major symbolic victory for them.
Union Influence and Democratic Concerns
As a publicly elected mayor, Mr. Burnham would require the NEC's approval to run. It is also possible the body could enforce an all-female shortlist to prevent his candidacy.
However, a supporter counselled against presuming the NEC would automatically reject him, even though Sir Keir's team is widely thought to dominate it.
The unions occupy a significant number of seats on the NEC. While the largest unions are for now keeping their counsel, sources suggested they would be uncomfortable with anything seen as meddling from Downing Street.
The leader 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 holds a sizable Labour majority. However, Reform UK is expected to launch a significant campaign, capitalising on support in one part of the constituency. Labour believes it is on stronger footing in the larger Greater Manchester section, though it could face some pressure from independent candidates.
If Mr. Burnham re-enter the Commons, he would need the backing of 80 Labour MPs to mount a leadership challenge, a hurdle that is not guaranteed given he is regarded with caution by some on the parliamentary party.
The departing MP confirmed he was stepping down due to deteriorating mental health, which had made it untenable for him to carry on in his role. He is also subject to a standards inquiry related to his involvement in an offensive online group.
