Andy Burnham's Rallying Cry to Labour MPs Amid By-Election Tensions
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has issued a direct appeal to Labour MPs, urging them to "come up to Manchester" ahead of the crucial Gorton and Denton by-election scheduled for February 26. This call comes amidst a deepening internal party rift, following Prime Minister Keir Starmer's decision to block Burnham's potential Westminster comeback.
Starmer Defends Controversial Block on Burnham's Return
Keir Starmer has faced significant criticism from within Labour ranks after the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) prevented Andy Burnham from standing as a parliamentary candidate. The Prime Minister attempted to justify the move, arguing that triggering a by-election for a new Mayor of Greater Manchester would "divert our resources away from the elections that we must have" this spring.
During a visit to a health centre in Wimbledon, Starmer emphasised unity, stating that Labour must focus its efforts on combating Nigel Farage's right-wing Reform UK. "All of our members, all of our supporters, all of our MPs, know that," he asserted, highlighting the cost of living as the paramount issue for the country.
Burnham's Focus on Manchester and Call for Togetherness
Andy Burnham, often dubbed the "King of the North," has declined to comment further on the controversy, stating he has said "everything I'm going to say" on the matter. Instead, he is concentrating on his mayoral duties and the upcoming by-election.
In his message to Labour MPs, Burnham elaborated on the "Greater Manchester way," a philosophy built on collaboration rather than division. He explained:
- "We don't ever here have a politics that's about pitting people one from another."
- "This is a place that is succeeding because of its commitment to people of all backgrounds working together for the common good."
- He invited MPs to join the campaign, saying, "So, come and join us. Let's get out there and celebrate what we've achieved in Greater Manchester in the by-election."
Labour MPs Express Fury Over NEC Decision
The decision to block Burnham has sparked considerable anger among Labour MPs. Reports indicate that more than 50 MPs have signed a letter protesting the NEC's move. Kim Johnson, the Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside, voiced her disappointment publicly, suggesting that Starmer should "consider his own position as leader of this party."
Johnson criticised the factionalism within Labour, stating, "This just plays into the level of factionalism that has been inherent in this party for too long and it has to stop." She also noted the poor handling of the situation, revealing that Burnham learned of the decision through the media rather than directly from party officials.
By-Election Preparations Underway
Despite the internal discord, Labour has formally initiated the by-election process to replace former MP Andrew Gwynne in the Gorton and Denton constituency. Government chief whip Jonathan Reynolds requested the writ for the vacant seat on Monday, officially setting the vote for February 26.
The party is expected to announce its candidate for the constituency this Saturday, as it prepares for a significant electoral battle. Starmer has attempted to downplay the rift with Burnham, praising his work as Mayor of Manchester while maintaining that resource allocation must prioritise essential elections.
As the by-election campaign begins, the focus remains on whether Labour can present a united front or if internal divisions will undermine its efforts in Greater Manchester.
