Labour MPs urge Darren Jones to challenge Andy Burnham for party leadership
Burnham, the strong favourite to succeed Keir Starmer, faces potential contest as supporters warn against a 'coronation' and raise concerns over Ed Miliband’s potential chancellorship.
Labour MPs are urging Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones to challenge Andy Burnham for the party leadership, aiming to prevent what they describe as a "coronation" of the strong favourite. Jones, the MP for Bristol North West, is reportedly reluctant to enter the race but is being encouraged by colleagues who highlight his experience in both economic and national security matters.
Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester and MP for Makerfield, is widely considered the frontrunner to succeed Keir Starmer, with reports suggesting he has the backing of approximately 300 MPs. Despite this support, a faction within the party is organising to ensure a contested election, arguing that a swift, uncontested transition would not serve the country’s best interests.
Central to the debate is Burnham’s potential appointment of former Energy Secretary Ed Miliband as chancellor. Supporters of Jones have expressed concern that this move could trigger a negative reaction in financial markets. While Burnham has not made a final decision on the appointment, sources indicate he is aware of the potential risks with business leaders and the opposition from trade unions, though he may argue for a bolder economic approach.
One MP backing Jones argued that Burnham’s policy platform mirrors approaches rejected by the electorate in the 2010, 2015, 2017, and 2019 general elections. In contrast, Jones is portrayed by his supporters as offering a "generational break" with national appeal and continuity in successful policy areas, distinguishing him from other potential candidates who are viewed as having more regional focus.
Conversely, senior Cabinet figures are advocating for stability. Nick Thomas-Symonds, the Cabinet Office minister, stated that a swift transition to Burnham is in the country’s best interests, emphasising the need for delivery in the second half of the parliament and the capacity to defeat Reform UK in the next general election.
Former defence minister Al Carns is also considering a leadership bid, focusing on strategic outcomes for 2029 and the 2034-35 period. He has called for a shift away from tactical politics towards long-term objectives, though he has not yet committed to running.
Burnham has stressed that he would adhere to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s fiscal rules on spending and debt if he were to assume leadership. He is planning a series of speeches to outline his policies, positioning himself as a proven deliverer based on his tenure as mayor and his recent electoral success in Makerfield.