Burnham signals he would run for UK Labour leadership if elected to parliament

Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, has signaled his intention to run for the leadership of the UK Labour Party. This move comes as the party trails in opinion polls, and Burnham believes a significant change is necessary.

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I can't do anything unless I'm lucky enough to get the support of people here (in Makerfield). But if I get your support, I would seek to represent you at the highest possible level.

Burnham's potential challenge is contingent on him first winning a bye-election in Makerfield on June 18. Speaking during a BBC debate for the parliamentary seat, he stated, "I can't do anything unless I'm lucky enough to get the support of people here (in Makerfield). But if I get your support, I would seek to represent you at the highest possible level."

He also commented on former health minister Wes Streeting, suggesting Streeting had already initiated 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," Burnham added.

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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. So that's the only question.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose popularity has been low, has stated he "will not walk away" from his mandate. Downing Street emphasized that the process for challenging the leader has not been triggered and that ministers should focus on governing.

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will not walk away