Andy Burnham is on course for a coronation as Labour’s new leader, as the only declared candidate ahead of nominations opening on Thursday. Al Carns, the final potential challenger, ruled himself out on Wednesday evening.
Al Carns Withdraws, Endorses Burnham
Former armed forces minister Al Carns said: “I’d hoped a leadership contest would give us the opportunity for a proper debate. But months of internal Labour politics isn’t what the country needs right now. We’ve got to get on with the job. Andy Burnham’s earned this and he’s got my full backing.”
Nomination Requirements and Timeline
Prospective candidates need the backing of 81 MPs to put themselves forward to replace Sir Keir Starmer, who resigned last month under increasing pressure from his party. In the absence of any other candidates, Mr Burnham will be formally declared Labour leader at a special conference on July 17 and is expected to become prime minister on July 20.
Burnham’s Policy Commitments
Writing in The Times on the eve of nominations opening, Mr Burnham said he would seek stability in foreign policy as prime minister, committing to Nato, the nuclear deterrent, maintaining close ties with the US, supporting Ukraine, and bolstering relations with the EU. He confirmed Sir Keir’s national security adviser Jonathan Powell would be kept on.
He also said the boost to defence spending set out in Sir Keir’s defence investment plan should be used to back British businesses and economic growth, with a focus on inward investment. He committed to “levelling with” the public over spending decisions, stating: “I want to be more open with the public about how and where defence funding is spent. For our biggest defence and infrastructure projects, I want to see more detailed, public progress updates, with more transparency and accountability to tackle cost overruns or delays before they spiral out of control. Our increased investment must be combined with an increase in scrutiny.”
Hustings Proceed Despite Lack of Contest
Mr Burnham will still take part in an online hustings with Labour MPs on Monday evening, even if he is the only candidate. The Makerfield MP is expected to become prime minister on July 20 after the special conference on July 17.
