Allies of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham have accused Downing Street of orchestrating a plot to undermine his campaign to return to Parliament through the Makerfield by-election. Concerns are mounting that Labour leadership may offer only minimal support for Burnham, while some MPs speculate he could reintroduce former leader Jeremy Corbyn, who was expelled from the party in 2024.
Polling Experts Predict Burnham's Rise
Prominent polling experts, including Professor Sir John Curtice and Lord Robert Hayward, have predicted that Burnham would become the next Labour leader if he secures victory in Makerfield. Sir Keir Starmer has pledged '100 per cent' support for the Labour candidate in the by-election but has refused to set a timetable for his own departure as leader.
Potential Obstacles and Fractures
Lord Hayward suggested that comments by Wes Streeting about rejoining the EU could jeopardise Burnham's chances in the strongly pro-Leave Makerfield constituency. Meanwhile, allies of the prime minister believe Burnham's diverse support base is already fracturing, raising questions about the cohesion of his campaign.
The by-election is seen as a pivotal moment for Burnham, who seeks to return to Westminster after serving as Mayor of Greater Manchester. The outcome could reshape the Labour leadership dynamics, with Burnham positioned as a potential successor to Starmer.
