Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has until 5pm on Saturday to decide whether to seek selection as Labour’s candidate in the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election.
If successful, winning the seat would allow Burnham to return to Parliament and potentially mount a future challenge to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership.
However, several obstacles stand in his way. As a directly elected mayor, Burnham must first secure approval from Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) before he can stand.
Reports revealed that some of Sir Keir’s allies on the NEC may attempt to block his candidacy, a move that could anger Labour MPs who back Burnham. The former cabinet minister has so far refused to confirm whether he will apply, saying he remains focused on his mayoral duties and urging caution against speculation.
Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell, an NEC member, described Burnham as “an incredibly popular politician” and said the party should select the strongest possible candidate to win the seat, while warning against internal divisions.
Speculation about a leadership challenge has grown ahead of May’s elections in Scotland, Wales and English councils, which are expected to be difficult for Labour. To enter any leadership contest, Burnham would need to be an MP.
Some within Labour argue blocking him would damage the party, while others fear triggering a costly mayoral election and opening the door to rivals such as Reform UK.
The NEC officers will decide on Burnham’s eligibility on Sunday, with the final deadline for candidates at midnight.
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