Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has cautioned Andy Burnham against immediately challenging his leadership if Burnham wins the upcoming by-election in Makerfield, urging him instead to focus on the subsequent election for Greater Manchester mayor.
Burnham, who would need to resign as mayor if elected to Parliament on Thursday, is widely expected to mount a leadership bid. However, Starmer, speaking from the G7 summit, described a potential contest as a "bad thing" for the country and reaffirmed his intention to fight any challenge.
The prime minister highlighted the importance of the mayoral by-election, expected by August 6, and called on the party to ensure a Labour victory. He also hinted at offering Burnham a cabinet role, stating, "I hope he wins the by-election and he'll play a big part in the Labour government."
Labour MP Wes Streeting added to the pressure, saying he is prepared to trigger a leadership contest after the by-election. Streeting, who resigned as health secretary last month, delayed his challenge to give Burnham a chance to enter the race. "I would prefer the PM to take a decision on his own terms rather than leave it for me or Andy or anyone else to trigger a contest," Streeting said on BBC's Newsnight.
Starmer dismissed Streeting's threat as "Westminster talk," reiterating the need to focus on the mayoral race. Some Labour MPs fear Reform UK could win the Manchester mayoralty, despite Burnham's previous landslide victory in 2024.
Burnham's supporters argue that the mayor's significance only strengthens his case to become prime minister sooner. Starmer, reflecting on his leadership, described being PM as "the privilege of my life" and said he entered politics to serve.
His leadership has faced further instability following the resignations of Defence Secretary John Healey and Minister Al Carns over funding disputes, with the chief of the defence staff warning of potential cuts to training and operations. Starmer noted that new Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis is reviewing priorities.