Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has publicly declared his support for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stating that the embattled leader has his backing during a period of significant political turmoil. This endorsement comes just one day after Starmer fought to secure his premiership against mounting pressure from within his own party.
Labour Unity and Stability in Focus
Speaking at an event hosted by the Resolution Foundation on Tuesday, Burnham emphasised the need for "greater unity" and stability across the Labour movement. This call follows days of internal strife triggered by the Peter Mandelson scandal, which has rocked the party's ranks and led to public divisions among senior figures.
"Yes, he [the Prime Minister] has my support. The government has my support. They had my support when I put myself forward for the by-election," Burnham affirmed, addressing questions about his stance on Starmer's leadership.
By-Election Verdict and Political Blockade
Last month, Burnham was prevented from standing as the Labour candidate in the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election, a decision made by Starmer and the party's governing body. Despite this setback, the Labour Mayor remains optimistic about the party's chances in the contest.
He insisted that the by-election is "winnable" for Labour, even as Reform UK and the Green Party allocate substantial resources to the seat in an effort to challenge the incumbent party's dominance.
Advocacy for Public Control and Party Cohesion
Burnham also used the platform to champion the benefits of public control in governance, arguing that it should be a collaborative goal with the government. "I believe it's what we should be working towards together with the Government and also bring pace and focus to lowering the cost of other of life's essentials," he stated.
He linked this vision to the need for political stability, making a personal appeal for cohesion within the Labour Party. "To do that requires stability and I make my own call for that today across the Labour Party. Of course, stability comes from greater unity and that would be helped by a more inclusive way of running the party, but recent events make that now feel possible," Burnham added.
Context of Leadership Challenges
This development occurs against a backdrop of leadership challenges for Starmer. On Monday, the Prime Minister survived calls to resign from Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, a situation described by a senior minister as a "moment of peril" for the government.
Burnham's endorsement is seen as a significant boost for Starmer, potentially helping to quell internal dissent and reinforce his authority ahead of the critical by-election later this month.
