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Labour MPs protest Burnham's exclusion from by-election
Approximately 50 Labour MPs have signed a letter to Sir Keir Starmer opposing the decision to prevent Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from contesting the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election, the BBC reports.
Letter warns of political fallout
The MPs argue the move could benefit Reform UK, as polling suggests Burnham is Labour's strongest candidate for the seat. They describe the decision as a "real gift" to the rival party and insist there is "no legitimate reason" to block him. The letter urges the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) to reconsider.
Starmer defends resource allocation
Sir Keir has justified the decision, stating that Labour's resources-financial and human-must prioritise essential elections rather than optional contests. "We need to focus on the elections we must have, not those we don't have to," he said on Monday.
NEC vote and internal divisions
The NEC, which includes Starmer, voted overwhelmingly on Sunday to block Burnham, citing the need to avoid an "unnecessary mayoral election" if he won the by-election. The previous mayoral contest in Greater Manchester cost taxpayers £4.7 million.
Of the NEC's 10 members, eight supported the ban, while Deputy Leader Lucy Powell backed Burnham's candidacy. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood abstained. The BBC understands around half a dozen Labour peers also signed the protest letter.
Burnham's response and leadership speculation
Burnham declined to comment on the NEC's decision, stating he was "disappointed" but focused on his role as mayor. When asked if Starmer feared him as a potential leadership rival, he refused further comment.
Burnham, who was re-elected as Greater Manchester's mayor in May 2024, would need to return to Parliament to challenge Starmer for the party leadership. His current term runs until May 2028.
By-election outlook
Labour won Gorton and Denton in 2024 with a 13,000-vote majority, but Reform UK and the Green Party are expected to mount stronger campaigns this time. The by-election is likely to be held on 26 February.
Housing Secretary Steve Reed acknowledged critics' views but noted the NEC had voted "overwhelmingly" in favour of the decision. Former Labour cabinet minister Harriet Harman urged colleagues to move on and concentrate on winning the seat.
