Burnham says he would seek to enter any Labour leadership contest

Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, announced he would seek to enter any potential Labour leadership contest if he wins the upcoming Makerfield by-election.

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I can't do anything unless I'm lucky enough to get the support of people here.

Burnham, speaking on BBC Question Time, also stated he would "take the fight to change politics and change this county as high as I could." He emphasized that his ability to do anything depends on the support of the Makerfield constituents. "But if I get your support, I would seek to represent you at the highest possible level and give this constituency maximum power and influence," he said.

He further clarified that if Wes Streeting proceeds with a leadership contest, he would seek to join it. However, he acknowledged the need to persuade members of the Parliamentary Labour Party. A leadership challenge requires an MP to have the backing of 81 Labour MPs.

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But if I get your support, I would seek to represent you at the highest possible level and give this constituency maximum power and influence.

Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon criticized Burnham's ambition, calling for a move away from "career politicians" and warning against using Makerfield as a "stepping stone." Kenyon also critiqued Burnham's record as mayor, stating that while Manchester thrives, "we're struggling to survive in Wigan," adding, "We've been left behind."

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I think Wes Streeting seems to have launched a leadership contest, so if that is running I would seek to join it, but I'd have to persuade members of the Parliamentary Labour Party to do the same.

Conservative candidate Michael Winstanley expressed disgust at Burnham seeking a return to Parliament after pledging to serve his term as mayor. He also stated that any politician elected in the by-election would help "get rid of Keir Starmer."

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We've been left behind.