Burnham cleared for Makerfield byelection as Labour braces for Reform challenge
Labour’s National Executive Committee has reversed its February decision to block Andy Burnham, who now faces a critical contest against Reform UK in a seat described as ground zero for red wall discontent.
The Greater Manchester mayor has been granted permission by Labour’s National Executive Committee to stand as the party’s candidate in the Makerfield byelection, clearing the final procedural hurdle for his return to parliament. The decision marks a significant reversal of the committee’s stance in February, when it initially rejected Burnham’s bid to contest a Westminster seat. With incumbent MP Josh Simons having resigned on Thursday, the byelection is expected to take place on or around 18 June, setting the stage for a high-stakes political confrontation.
Allies of Burnham suggest the mayor intends to win the seat and position himself for the Labour leadership, potentially becoming prime minister before the party’s autumn conference in Liverpool. While some supporters view a victory as a direct pathway to a leadership contest, sources close to the mayor indicate his preference is a longer timeline, with his immediate focus remaining on the electoral battle. Burnham is expected to outline his “Manchesterism” political vision next week, a framework centred on making people feel rooted and invested in their local areas.
The contest presents a formidable challenge, with Reform UK pledging to fight the seat vigorously. Polling analysis by Survation, shared with The Guardian, indicates that Labour holds a narrow lead over Reform if Burnham is the candidate, with projections of 45 per cent to 43 per cent. This stands in stark contrast to scenarios involving other potential Labour candidates, where Labour trailed significantly at 27 per cent against Reform’s 53 per cent. The data underscores the perceived necessity of Burnham’s candidacy in maintaining a competitive position in the area.
Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, has confirmed there will be no attempt to stop Burnham’s efforts, framing the byelection as a critical test against a party that has surged in local elections. Powell described Makerfield as a community that feels disconnected from mainstream politics, arguing that Burnham’s narrative and connection to the region are essential to keeping the seat in play. She emphasised that the campaign would be a straight fight against Reform, aiming to galvanise the party across the country.
Internal party dynamics remain complex, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer having lifted his prior objections to Burnham seeking a Westminster seat despite pressure from over 80 MPs for him to resign. Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting endorsed Burnham’s candidacy, describing him as one of Labour’s “best players”. However, concerns persist within the party regarding the potential fallout if Burnham loses, with some MPs describing Makerfield as the “absolute ground zero of red wall Reform anger”. The Green Party has also pledged to stand in the seat, a move criticised by former leader Caroline Lucas, while the right-wing Restore Britain party may field a candidate, further fragmenting the opposition vote.