politics
Labour MP Andy Burnham Enters Race to Succeed Keir Starmer as Prime Minister
Andy Burnham won a by-election and was sworn in as Labour MP for Makerfield on June 22, 2026. He is now meeting fellow Labour MPs to seek support as the party's next leader and prime minister after Keir Starmer announced his resignation the same day.
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Andy Burnham was sworn in as the Labour MP for Makerfield on June 22, 2026, after winning a by-election. He recited the standard affirmation of allegiance during the ceremony. Labour MPs present at the ceremony cheered as Burnham completed the process. Burnham has confirmed he will run to succeed Keir Starmer as Labour leader and UK prime minister.
Starmer announced on June 22, 2026, that he would step down as prime minister and Labour Party leader. He stated he would remain in post until a new leader is selected. "New leader will be in place before Parliament returns in September, I will remain in post until then," Starmer said.
Burnham is meeting Labour MPs to "win their confidence" as their next prime minister, according to former Labour deputy leader Harriet Harman. Burnham has been nominated to lead the UK Labour Party and become the next prime minister. Burnham is described by multiple outlets as a longtime mayor comfortable in both Westminster and working-class northern England.
His allies say he could help mend Labour's relationship with voters.
