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Burnham Should Be Heard ‘at Top of Politics’ if He Wins Makerfield, Says Nandy
Starmer said Burnham would play a big part in the Labour government if he wins, as polls show him leading the Makerfield contest.
Votes were counted Friday in the Makerfield by-election, where Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham seeks a Westminster return that could trigger a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Keir Starmer within the Labour Party.
Starmer faces mounting pressure regarding his premiership amid leadership speculation, with Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon representing the primary electoral threat; the Restore Britain party could split opposition votes in Makerfield.
The Prime Minister insisted he is "not going to walk away" and will fight any leadership contest, while previously indicating he would offer Burnham a role to "play a big part in the Labour government."
Burnham and his allies reportedly hope for a "coronation" where Starmer stands aside, though the Prime Minister vowed to speak with Burnham "after the weekend" once results are finalized.
These results coincide with by-elections in Aberdeen South and Arbroath, as Labour figures urged Starmer to reflect on recent results and consider an "orderly and managed transition" for the party.