Reform UK has vowed to throw everything they have at stopping Andy Burnham from becoming an MP as it seeks to embarrass the Labour big beast's plan for a triumphal return to Westminster. Deputy leader Richard Tice said the party wanted to 'make Burnham history' in the Makerfield by-election, triggered to allow the Greater Manchester mayor to abandon the north and try to become prime minister.
Burnham Launches Campaign
Mr. Burnham last night launched the first stage of what is seen as a campaign to take control of Labour and the country that could put him in No10 by the summer. If cleared by Labour bigwigs, he plans to run in a by-election in Makerfield, in Greater Manchester, after incumbent Josh Simons - a former Starmer loyalist - deliberately stepped aside to facilitate him.
Reform's Local Strength
While Mr. Simons won a majority of 5,399 in the 2024 general election, Reform performed well in the area in last week's local elections, winning all the wards contested. Predictions for the 2029 election, based on current polling, make it a safe Reform win. Speaking to GB News today, Mr. Tice said 'the north had already spoken' about its feelings for Labour, adding: 'I am absolutely sure we will select someone who has the best chance and who will ultimately defeat Andy Burnham. Our simple campaign is vote Reform and make Burnham history.'
Analysis of the local election results from May 7 this year show that of the ten wards contested on Wigan Council that fall within the parliamentary constituency of Makerfield, either wholly or partially, Reform candidates won every single one of them. Last night, Reform leader Nigel Farage vowed to 'throw absolutely everything at it' in a bid to block Mr. Burnham.
Tough Challenge Ahead
Even the former Labour minister's supporters have conceded it may not be a straightforward win. Makerfield was a surprise choice of seat after Mr. Burnham was linked with pretty much every Labour seat in the North West, but was rebuffed by all their current MPs. Stroud MP Simon Opher, who backs Mr. Burnham, admitted winning Makerfield was a 'tough ask' but told BBC Radio 4's Today Programme: 'He could win the next election for Labour ... we need to listen to every part of [the] party and come up with a leader who can unite us.'
