Andy Burnham is now expected to step down from his role as Greater Manchester Mayor after winning the Makerfield by-election, a result that could pave the way for him to become Prime Minister. The Labour candidate secured a decisive victory with 24,927 votes, marking the highest turnout for a parliamentary by-election in nearly seven years.
By-Election Victory
Burnham defeated Reform UK's Robert Kenyon by 9,231 votes, overcoming the main threat to his Westminster return. Reform had been high in national opinion polls and had recently won council seats in the constituency. Burnham described the campaign as a "vote to change politics" and vowed to "take that fight as high" as possible.
Labour Conference in Liverpool
The annual Labour Conference will return to Liverpool from 27 to 30 September 2026 at ACC Liverpool. This will be the fifth consecutive year the event is held there. Key events include the chancellor's speech on 28 September and the leader's speech on 29 September. Labour expects over 20,000 attendees, describing it as "our biggest conference to date."
Leadership Challenge
Burnham is expected to use his return to the Commons to launch a bid to replace Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. However, Starmer has insisted he has no intention of stepping down and will fight any leadership challenge. Burnham is not expected to take a job in Starmer's government.
To challenge a sitting leader, an MP needs nominations from 20% of the parliamentary party (currently 81 MPs) and support from 5% of local branches or at least three party-affiliated groups, including two unions. If the threshold is met, the contest goes to a vote of party members. If Starmer steps down and no other challengers emerge, the process could be completed in days. Otherwise, a longer timetable would be set by the NEC.
