Wes Streeting has announced he will not run against Andy Burnham for the Labour leadership, clearing the path for the former mayor of Greater Manchester. The former health secretary under Sir Keir Starmer made the declaration following the Prime Minister's resignation speech on June 22.
Makerfield By-Election Victory
Mr Streeting's decision comes after Mr Burnham's emphatic win in the Makerfield by-election last week, where Labour increased its vote share and held off Reform UK. Mr Streeting had been considered the main potential rival to replace Sir Keir.
He resigned as health secretary one week after Labour's poor local election results and called on Sir Keir to step down. Mr Streeting had previously claimed he had the support of 81 MPs to trigger a leadership contest.
Shared Vision for the Future
In a letter posted on social media, Mr Streeting said discussions with Mr Burnham made clear they share ideas for the country's direction. He wrote: "Keir Starmer led us to a general election victory that no one thought possible... He has made the right decision to stand down as the Leader of the Labour Party that he saved."
He added: "After a devastating set of election results in May, the Makerfield by-election has proven that Labour can still win if we have the courage to change... It was also Andy Burnham's victory."
Streeting's Policy Ideas
Mr Streeting outlined his vision for progressive capitalism, wealth creation, modernising public services, and strengthening alliances with democracies. He said he is convinced those ideas have a place under Mr Burnham's leadership.
He urged party members to back Mr Burnham: "We could spend the summer exaggerating small differences, or we can roll up our sleeves and help him to deliver the change our Party and our country needs."
Burnham's Leadership Bid
Mr Burnham signalled his intention to run for Labour leader with a social media post earlier today. He is travelling to Westminster after saying farewell to Greater Manchester Combined Authority staff, following the end of his nine-year mayoralty.
