Andy Burnham has secured a commanding victory in the Makerfield by-election, winning 55% of the vote and a majority of 9,231 over Reform UK. The result has intensified calls for a change in Labour leadership, with Burnham's allies suggesting he could challenge Keir Starmer for the premiership.
In his victory speech, Burnham described the result as a 'turning point' and Labour's 'final chance' to rebuild politics based on unity and hope. He emphasised that voters had chosen change and greater power for the north, warning against the divisive politics seen in the United States.
Senior Labour figures, including former deputy leader Harriet Harman, have urged Starmer to agree to a leadership contest. Harman proposed a meeting between Starmer, Burnham, and Wes Streeting to decide a process for MPs to choose their preferred leader, without involving the wider party membership.
However, communities secretary Steve Reed cautioned against a rushed leadership change, arguing that Labour should focus on preventing Reform UK from taking control of Greater Manchester. He stressed that any challenge must follow the party's established rules.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer congratulated Burnham on his win, stating that voters had chosen Labour's campaign of hope over division. Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting echoed the need for change, saying Burnham's campaign proved Labour must adapt to win.
The by-election saw a turnout of 59%, with Labour securing 55% of the vote, Reform UK 35%, and Restore Britain 7%. Burnham's majority was nearly double that of his predecessor, Josh Simons, and he won more votes than the two hard-right parties combined.
