Labour Faces Internal Strife as By-Election Looms Amid Reform UK Threat
Published 26 January 2026
Highlights
- A by-election in the Gorton and Denton constituency is set for February 26, following the resignation of Labour MP Andrew Gwynne.
- Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) blocked Andy Burnham from running, citing resource allocation for upcoming elections.
- The decision has sparked backlash within Labour, with 50 MPs signing a letter opposing the move, fearing it benefits Reform UK.
- Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, is gaining traction, causing concern for both Labour and the Conservatives.
- Keir Starmer defends the decision, emphasizing the need to focus on critical elections in May and avoid unnecessary mayoral elections.
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Rewritten Article
Labour Faces Internal Strife as By-Election Looms Amid Reform UK Threat
The Labour Party is grappling with internal tensions as a by-election in the Gorton and Denton constituency approaches, set for February 26. The by-election follows the resignation of former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne, and the party is under pressure to retain a seat it has held for over 90 years. However, the decision by Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from contesting has sparked significant controversy.
NEC Decision Sparks Backlash
The NEC, including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, decided against allowing Burnham to run, arguing that it would divert resources from crucial elections in May, including those in the Welsh Senedd and Scottish Parliament. "We need all of our focus on those elections," Starmer stated, emphasizing the importance of concentrating efforts where they are most needed. The decision has not been well-received by all, with around 50 Labour MPs signing a letter to Starmer, expressing their discontent and warning that the move could be advantageous to Reform UK.
Reform UK Gains Momentum
Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, is increasingly seen as a formidable challenger, causing unease within both Labour and the Conservative Party. The party's rise has been marked by several high-profile defections from the Conservatives, including former Home Secretary Suella Braverman. This shift has intensified the political landscape, with Labour particularly concerned about losing ground to Reform UK in the upcoming by-election.
Political Implications for Starmer
The decision to block Burnham, a potential leadership rival, has fueled speculation about Starmer's leadership. While Starmer has defended the NEC's decision as a strategic move to avoid unnecessary elections, the backlash highlights underlying tensions within the party. Burnham, who has expressed disappointment but remains focused on his role as mayor, has not ruled out future attempts to return to Westminster.
The Labour Party is grappling with internal tensions as a by-election in the Gorton and Denton constituency approaches, set for February 26. The by-election follows the resignation of former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne, and the party is under pressure to retain a seat it has held for over 90 years. However, the decision by Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from contesting has sparked significant controversy.
NEC Decision Sparks Backlash
The NEC, including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, decided against allowing Burnham to run, arguing that it would divert resources from crucial elections in May, including those in the Welsh Senedd and Scottish Parliament. "We need all of our focus on those elections," Starmer stated, emphasizing the importance of concentrating efforts where they are most needed. The decision has not been well-received by all, with around 50 Labour MPs signing a letter to Starmer, expressing their discontent and warning that the move could be advantageous to Reform UK.
Reform UK Gains Momentum
Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, is increasingly seen as a formidable challenger, causing unease within both Labour and the Conservative Party. The party's rise has been marked by several high-profile defections from the Conservatives, including former Home Secretary Suella Braverman. This shift has intensified the political landscape, with Labour particularly concerned about losing ground to Reform UK in the upcoming by-election.
Political Implications for Starmer
The decision to block Burnham, a potential leadership rival, has fueled speculation about Starmer's leadership. While Starmer has defended the NEC's decision as a strategic move to avoid unnecessary elections, the backlash highlights underlying tensions within the party. Burnham, who has expressed disappointment but remains focused on his role as mayor, has not ruled out future attempts to return to Westminster.
What this might mean
As the by-election date approaches, Labour faces the dual challenge of maintaining party unity and countering the growing influence of Reform UK. A loss in Gorton and Denton could exacerbate internal divisions and prompt calls for a leadership contest. Meanwhile, Reform UK's momentum poses a significant threat to both major parties, potentially reshaping the political landscape. Experts suggest that Starmer's ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in determining Labour's future trajectory and its prospects in the upcoming general elections.
