Lizzy Buchan, Political Editor, reports on the growing pressure on Keir Starmer following disastrous local election results, with many Labour MPs eying Andy Burnham as a potential successor. However, Burnham faces significant hurdles before he can launch a leadership bid.
MPs Look North for Salvation
Panicking Labour MPs are increasingly looking towards Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham as a way out of the party's electoral slump. The mood among backbenchers is shifting, with many hoping Burnham can restore the party's popularity. However, Burnham currently does not hold a seat in Parliament, a requirement under Labour's rulebook for leadership candidates.
Obstacles to a Burnham Leadership
Burnham's path to a leadership contest is fraught with challenges. He would need an MP to stand down to trigger a by-election in a winnable seat, and then secure the approval of Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC), which is still influenced by Starmer. Even if he wins a seat, he would need the backing of 81 MPs to enter a contest. Burnham is not universally popular within the party, having failed in two previous leadership bids.
Former Deputy PM Angela Rayner has publicly supported Burnham's return to Parliament, along with figures like Lisa Nandy and Sadiq Khan. However, Rayner herself faces an ongoing HMRC probe into her tax affairs, which some MPs fear could be a liability. Health Secretary Wes Streeting is also seen as a potential contender, though his camp has indicated he does not intend to challenge Starmer immediately.
Starmer's Fight to Survive
Keir Starmer has vowed to fight any challenger and will automatically be on the ballot as party leader. Downing Street hopes he can weather the storm and unite MPs with a forthcoming King's Speech. However, the threat from Burnham, dubbed the 'King in the North', is unlikely to dissipate.
