Jacob Rees-Mogg has called for the Conservative Party and Reform UK to “work together” in a bid to defeat Andy Burnham in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. The former Tory cabinet minister described the contest as a “golden opportunity for the right to unite” and deliver a “nasty surprise” to the Labour Party.
Rees-Mogg’s Call for Unity
Speaking about the by-election in the North West constituency, Sir Jacob said: “In Makerfield, of course, the favourites to win are Labour. So, what does this mean? Well, I think my party, the Conservative Party, and Reform should work together in the national interest.” He warned that Labour’s victory would “propel him into office,” referring to Mr Burnham as a “menace” who would be “worse than Starmer” as prime minister.
Sir Jacob emphasised the strategic importance of the seat: “It is a seat where if the right divides, it makes it easier for him to win. So, I would like to see a foretaste of what we could do at a general election, a coming together of the two parties to work together overwhelmingly in the national interest.”
Voters and Leaders Urged to Act
He added: “The voters may recognise the advantages of tactical voting. But wouldn't it be more sensible for the two leaders for Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage to see there is an opportunity to work together - to show that politicians can come together and can do things that are overwhelmingly to the benefit of the country at large?” In an interview with The Telegraph, Sir Jacob noted: “I actually suggested we stand aside in Gorton and Denton [by-election] so I think a mutual pact would be an excellent idea.”
Badenoch Rejects Pact
However, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has ruled out any electoral pact with Reform UK. Speaking to GB News, she stated: “We will be standing a candidate at this election. Everybody should compete and the people of the constituency should make their choice about who it is they want to represent them.”
Background on the By-Election
The by-election in Makerfield was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, a former ally of Sir Keir Starmer. Simons announced last week he would step down to allow Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham a chance to return to Parliament. The contest is seen as a crucial test for Burnham, who is expected to launch a leadership challenge against Starmer if he wins.
The seat has become increasingly competitive. At the 2024 general election, Simons won with a majority of just 5,399 over Reform UK. Since then, Labour’s polling has collapsed while Reform’s support has surged. This month’s local elections saw Reform win every council ward in the constituency, securing around half the vote, while Labour trailed with just over a quarter.
Despite these challenges, Burnham remains the UK’s most popular politician according to YouGov, with 35% of people holding a positive opinion of him. He will rely on his personal popularity to overcome the national trend and secure victory, proving he can push back Reform at the next general election.
