Andy Burnham Faces Hurdles in Potential Return to Westminster Amid Labour Divisions
Published 23 January 2026
Highlights
- Andy Burnham is considering a return to Westminster by contesting the Gorton and Denton by-election, but faces potential opposition from Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC).
- Angela Rayner is expected to support Burnham's candidacy, arguing against blocking him from standing in the by-election.
- The by-election was triggered by Andrew Gwynne's resignation due to health issues, creating a potential leadership challenge scenario for Keir Starmer.
- Labour MPs and union leaders are divided on Burnham's potential candidacy, with some warning against a "London stitch-up" and advocating for a democratic selection process.
- The NEC may impose conditions such as an all-women shortlist, complicating Burnham's path to candidacy.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: Andy Burnham Faces Hurdles in Potential Return to Westminster Amid Labour Divisions
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is at the center of a political storm as he weighs the possibility of contesting the Gorton and Denton by-election, a move that could pave the way for a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The by-election, triggered by the resignation of Andrew Gwynne due to health reasons, has opened a potential route back to Parliament for Burnham, who has not yet confirmed his candidacy.
Support and Opposition Within Labour
Angela Rayner, former deputy prime minister, is expected to publicly back Burnham at the Labour north-west regional conference, urging the party not to block his candidacy. However, Burnham's path is fraught with challenges, as some members of Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC), loyal to Starmer, are reportedly seeking to prevent his return. Under Labour rules, elected mayors require NEC approval to stand as Parliamentary candidates, adding another layer of complexity to Burnham's decision.
Divided Opinions and Potential Implications
The prospect of Burnham's candidacy has divided Labour MPs and union leaders. While some argue that blocking him would be undemocratic, others fear the political risks associated with his return. Jo White, leader of the Red Wall group, criticized the potential for a "London stitch-up," while Unison's general secretary Andrea Egan warned against "control-freakery" within the party. The NEC may also consider an all-women shortlist, given the current gender imbalance among Labour MPs.
A High-Stakes Decision
Burnham's decision is further complicated by the tight timeline for the by-election, with applications closing shortly after the NEC's decision. If he decides to run, Burnham would need to resign as mayor, triggering another election in Greater Manchester. The by-election itself is expected to be fiercely contested, with potential candidates from the Green Party and Reform UK also eyeing the seat.
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Scenario Analysis
If Andy Burnham decides to pursue the Gorton and Denton seat, it could significantly impact the Labour Party's internal dynamics. A successful candidacy might position him as a formidable challenger to Keir Starmer's leadership, especially if Labour performs poorly in upcoming local elections. Conversely, if the NEC blocks his candidacy, it could lead to internal strife and accusations of undemocratic practices, potentially alienating party members and voters. The outcome of this by-election could thus shape the future direction of the Labour Party and its leadership.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is at the center of a political storm as he weighs the possibility of contesting the Gorton and Denton by-election, a move that could pave the way for a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The by-election, triggered by the resignation of Andrew Gwynne due to health reasons, has opened a potential route back to Parliament for Burnham, who has not yet confirmed his candidacy.
Support and Opposition Within Labour
Angela Rayner, former deputy prime minister, is expected to publicly back Burnham at the Labour north-west regional conference, urging the party not to block his candidacy. However, Burnham's path is fraught with challenges, as some members of Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC), loyal to Starmer, are reportedly seeking to prevent his return. Under Labour rules, elected mayors require NEC approval to stand as Parliamentary candidates, adding another layer of complexity to Burnham's decision.
Divided Opinions and Potential Implications
The prospect of Burnham's candidacy has divided Labour MPs and union leaders. While some argue that blocking him would be undemocratic, others fear the political risks associated with his return. Jo White, leader of the Red Wall group, criticized the potential for a "London stitch-up," while Unison's general secretary Andrea Egan warned against "control-freakery" within the party. The NEC may also consider an all-women shortlist, given the current gender imbalance among Labour MPs.
A High-Stakes Decision
Burnham's decision is further complicated by the tight timeline for the by-election, with applications closing shortly after the NEC's decision. If he decides to run, Burnham would need to resign as mayor, triggering another election in Greater Manchester. The by-election itself is expected to be fiercely contested, with potential candidates from the Green Party and Reform UK also eyeing the seat.
What this might mean
If Andy Burnham decides to pursue the Gorton and Denton seat, it could significantly impact the Labour Party's internal dynamics. A successful candidacy might position him as a formidable challenger to Keir Starmer's leadership, especially if Labour performs poorly in upcoming local elections. Conversely, if the NEC blocks his candidacy, it could lead to internal strife and accusations of undemocratic practices, potentially alienating party members and voters. The outcome of this by-election could thus shape the future direction of the Labour Party and its leadership.
