A YouGov poll has revealed that the public are near-divided on their opinion of Andy Burnham, the new Makerfield MP and former Greater Manchester mayor. The survey found 34 per cent of Brits view him favourably, while 38 per cent hold an unfavourable opinion. 29 per cent of those surveyed were still unsure.
Net Rating and Comparison
The poll left Burnham with a net rating of -4, the highest of any politician polled. This was up seven points from last week, prior to the Makerfield by-election. However, it still represents a negative turn since he began his run for parliament. In mid-May, just 30 per cent of Brits held an unfavourable opinion of the then mayor, eight points lower than today, according to YouGov.
Other Political Figures
Sir Keir Starmer's net favourability rating was polled at -45, down 27 points from his last rating ahead of the 2024 general election. Conservative party leader Kemi Badenoch scored -15, her highest to date. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was viewed favourably by 25 per cent, the joint-lowest figure for him since the 2024 election.
Leadership Context
Mr Burnham announced he would stand in the Labour leadership race following Sir Keir's resignation on Monday. He is viewed as his most likely successor. According to reports, the former mayor has been offered Government briefings to prepare for power after Civil Service access talks were authorised by Sir Keir. The pair met on Tuesday, the first time since Mr Burnham’s Westminster return, in a face-to-face meeting away from No 10 that was reportedly 'frosty', according to the Guardian.
Potential Cabinet and Advisors
Talks are continuing about who might serve in a Burnham cabinet and advise behind the scenes. Senior Labour figures, including former transport secretary Louise Haigh, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and former health secretary Wes Streeting, have all been tipped for top jobs. James Purnell, a former Labour cabinet minister, is reportedly being considered as a chief of staff, the Times said. Crossbench peer Jim O’Neill, who has been advising Mr Burnham, told the Guardian he wanted to see a new independent body set up to spend extra money on infrastructure while remaining within Labour’s fiscal rules.
