Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is reportedly planning to downplay his previous calls for reversing Brexit during the upcoming by-election campaign, according to allies. The move marks a significant shift from his remarks at the Labour Party conference last year, where he expressed a desire for the UK to rejoin the European Union.
Burnham told delegates he hoped rejoining would happen “in my lifetime,” citing his belief in unions of all kinds, including the European Union. However, sources close to the mayor indicate he will not be “going big on Europe” in his pitch to voters, particularly those in the so-called Red Wall seats that swung to the Conservatives in 2019.
The apparent U-turn comes as Burnham is widely viewed as a potential future prime minister, with some speculating he could take the top job within months. His allies insist the change of emphasis is a pragmatic response to public opinion, rather than a reversal of principle, as the by-election approaches.
Critics have accused Burnham of opportunism, while supporters argue he is listening to constituents who prioritise issues such as the cost of living over Europe. The final shape of his campaign platform remains unclear, but Europe is expected to feature less prominently than previously signalled.
