Wes Streeting has declared that Andy Burnham is Labour's "best chance" of securing victory in the "tough" Makerfield by-election, as the party's ruling body prepares to decide on the Manchester mayor's candidacy. The former health secretary backed Mr Burnham in what he described as a challenging contest, urging the party to prioritize winning over internal factional disputes.
Burnham's Bid for Parliament
Mr Burnham announced he would seek permission from Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) to contest the by-election after the current MP, Josh Simons, declared on Thursday that he would step down from Parliament to make way for the mayor. If successful, the Greater Manchester mayor is widely anticipated to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership.
Streeting's Endorsement
In a tweet on Friday, Mr Streeting backed his potential rival's bid to fight the impending by-election, emphasizing that Labour needs "our best players on the pitch." He stated: "The Makerfield by-election will be tough. Votes will need to be earned. Andy is the best chance of winning and that should override factional advantage or propping up one person."
The endorsement comes amid speculation that a Burnham victory could reshape Labour's leadership dynamics, with many viewing his return to Parliament as a stepping stone to a future leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer.
