Key facts
- A special election is being held in the Makerfield constituency in northwest England.
- Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is the leading candidate to win the Makerfield seat.
- Keir Starmer's leadership of the Labour Party is reportedly on the line, with significant internal pressure following poor local election results.
- Burnham has pledged to "change politics" if elected to Parliament.
- The election is seen as a crucial test for Starmer, with many Labour MPs calling for his resignation.
Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, faces a critical juncture as voters in the Makerfield constituency head to a special election. While Starmer is not on the ballot, the outcome is widely seen as a referendum on his leadership, particularly after Labour's significant losses in recent local elections.
The leading contender in Makerfield is Andy Burnham, the current Mayor of Greater Manchester and a prominent figure within the Labour Party. If Burnham secures victory for Labour in this closely watched by-election, it is widely anticipated that he will challenge Starmer for the party leadership. This potential challenge comes amid widespread discontent within the Labour Party, with nearly 90 MPs reportedly calling for Starmer's resignation following the dismal local election results.
Starmer has publicly stated his intention to remain leader and warned against the chaos of a leadership contest, especially given ongoing international conflicts. However, the pressure is mounting, with senior colleagues reportedly seeking a change in leadership. The resignation of Josh Simons, the Labour lawmaker for Makerfield, specifically to create an opportunity for Burnham to return to Parliament, underscores the internal dynamics at play.
Burnham has made ambitious promises, vowing to "change politics" if given the opportunity. The intense media attention on this by-election, with journalists from around the world descending on Makerfield, highlights its significance beyond a typical parliamentary contest. The results are expected early Friday, and their implications for Starmer's political future and the direction of the UK government are substantial.