Sir Keir Starmer has broken his silence on Andy Burnham's historic win in the Makerfield by-election, despite never once visiting the seat throughout the entire campaign. The Prime Minister is now facing a potential leadership challenge from the Greater Manchester Mayor, who topped the ballot with a 20 per cent lead over Reform UK.
Starmer's Belated Congratulations
Congratulating his leadership rival, Sir Keir said voters had backed 'Labour's campaign of hope and optimism over division and hate'. However, the Prime Minister had not visited the by-election seat at all during the campaign, a fact that has drawn criticism from opponents.
Burnham's Victory and Warning to Downing Street
Mr Burnham secured a 9,231 majority over Reform UK's Robert Kenyon. The by-election was called after the previous Labour MP, Josh Simons, stepped aside just two years into the job to allow the Mayor to return to Parliament. Upon winning, Mr Burnham told supporters that last May the area had 'made a loud cry for change' when it voted Reform. 'In this campaign, we have begun to answer that, but I do say to my own party, this is a final chance to change,' he added, in what has been seen as a warning shot to Downing Street.
Cabinet Reactions
Mr Burnham's victory was welcomed by senior Cabinet members including Lisa Nandy, who said it was 'history in the making'. She commented: 'What Andy's shown here is that there is something that he brings, a willingness to go out and fight for the change that people need, to take on any system and any person who stands in the way and to be bold and to wear his heart on his sleeve, and people have responded. I think that with him back in the top team, at the top table, helping to drive that change, I think we'll be in a really strong position.'
Leadership Challenge Looming
Starmer's allies have said he would welcome Mr Burnham to the cabinet table in what could be an attempt to stave off a leadership challenge. However, Mr Burnham's victory has intensified speculation that he may launch a bid for the premiership in the coming days.
