Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has defiantly stated he has no intention of resigning, even as the prospect of Andy Burnham returning to Westminster grows. Speaking at the G7 summit in France, Starmer dismissed calls for him to step down, vowing to continue the work he was elected to do.
Starmer's Defiant Message
Surrounded by world leaders, Starmer told reporters: "I do not plan to walk away from all this. We secured a landslide victory in 2024 for a five-year mandate. I will bring back the change that people desperately need." He emphasised his commitment to investing in public services and stabilising the economy, pointing to reduced NHS waiting lists—the biggest drop in 17 years—and the highest growth in the G7.
Burnham's Potential Return
Thursday's Makerfield by-election will determine whether Burnham swaps his role as Mayor of Greater Manchester for a seat in the Commons. He is widely expected to challenge Starmer's leadership. Recent polls show Labour and the Conservatives tied at 19%, behind Reform UK on 24%.
Starmer reflected on his political journey: "Many times people said it's not possible to turn the Labour Party around or win an election. They were wrong every time. I intend to carry on serving this country."
The by-election result could reshape the political landscape, with Burnham's return adding pressure on Starmer's leadership.
