Starmer Tells Burnham Not to Mount Leadership Challenge

The prime minister said a leadership challenge would throw the country into chaos if Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham wins Thursday's Makerfield by-election and launches a campaign to replace him as Labour leader. The prime minister told ITV's This Morning that voters gave Labour a five-year mandate in the 2024 election.

He acknowledged public frustration with the pace of change but said the party must complete its work.

Background to the contest The Makerfield by-election was triggered when former minister Josh Simons resigned to create an opening for Burnham's return to Parliament. Burnham won the seat by 5,399 votes in 2024. Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon is also standing.

Reform won every ward in the constituency in May's local elections. Burnham said voters could write a new script for British politics. He added that the country is becoming more divided and should avoid following the path of the United States.

Potential leadership challenge Burnham would need support from 81 Labour MPs to mount a challenge. Former health secretary Wes Streeting and ex-armed forces minister Al Carns have also indicated they would run if a contest occurs. The prime minister said he would fight any challenge and would not walk away from the role.

Burnham's spokesperson ruled out any immediate bid within hours of a possible victory.