Andy Burnham has ruled out calling a snap general election if he successfully seizes power from Keir Starmer. The Greater Manchester Mayor's team confirmed today that he would not go to the country if he wins the Makerfield by-election and subsequently becomes prime minister.
Previous Demands for Early Election
Mr. Burnham had previously demanded that the Conservatives call a general election when they changed leaders in 2022. However, he has now decided to follow their example and continue until the next scheduled election, which is due in 2029.
This decision comes as a new poll shows Reform UK widening its national support to nine points, just over a fortnight before the Makerfield vote, which Mr. Burnham needs to win to enact his plan to take power. Nigel Farage's party is on 29 percent in a poll by YouGov, with Labour and the Tories tied in second on 18 percent.
If such a result were replicated at a snap election, it could hand Mr. Farage a majority and mean Mr. Burnham's premiership could last little longer than that of Liz Truss.
Attack on Water Companies
Mr. Burnham today took aim at 'profiteering' water companies as he continues his campaign ahead of the June 18 by-election. He called for stronger public control of the industry and said North West-based United Utilities should cancel the final dividend due to be paid to shareholders in August and redistribute the money to lower costs for consumers instead. This follows the company's profits surging after an increase in bills.
He stated: 'There is simply no justification for profiteering on this scale when people are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. This confirms why people feel the system is rigged against them. It makes the case for essential public services coming back under public control.'
