Key facts
- Labour MPs have warned party leadership to address member anger over the lack of a democratic process in Andy Burnham's expected leadership.
- Disgruntled members are reportedly unhappy about the lack of involvement if Burnham does not face a challenge.
- The party is planning online Q&A events to substitute for leadership contest hustings.
- Andy Burnham is expected to become Labour leader at a special conference on July 17.
- Trade unions will be allowed to express endorsements before Burnham is officially named leader.
Labour MPs have issued a warning to the party's ruling body, urging them to address growing discontent among members regarding the perceived lack of democratic process in Andy Burnham's expected ascent to party leadership. Concerns are mounting that Burnham will not face a challenge, leading to fears of a 'coronation' rather than a contest.
Sources indicate that members are unhappy about their limited involvement if Burnham secures the leadership without opposition. The party is reportedly considering holding the announcement at Everton FC's ground, a move that has drawn criticism for appearing presumptive before the official nomination deadline. To compensate for the absence of traditional hustings, Labour plans to organize online Q&A events with Burnham.
Burnham, the MP for Makerfield, is widely anticipated to become Labour leader at a special conference scheduled for July 17, provided no other candidate secures the necessary 81 MP nominations, a scenario now deemed highly unlikely. Nominations are set to open a week prior, with Burnham expected to garner substantial support from MPs and ministers.
Several members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) have acknowledged efforts to appease disgruntled members and trade unions concerned about a democratic deficit. Trade unions will have the opportunity to express their endorsements from July 9, a process that has required a modification to Labour's rulebook to allow formal views before the leader is officially declared.
Burnham has been actively engaging with MPs and trade union leaders, discussing key policy areas such as oil and gas licences and care worker visas. However, representatives for constituency Labour parties (CLPs) have also reported unhappiness from rank-and-file members about their limited input in the leadership selection.
CLP representative Ann Black highlighted member upset over Keir Starmer's departure and the need to avoid alienating supporters of previous leaders. MPs have reported receiving angry criticism from members in recent meetings, with sentiments ranging from dissatisfaction with Starmer's removal to support for figures like Jeremy Corbyn and Owen Smith. While acknowledging affection for Burnham, MPs stressed the importance of him engaging with party members to prevent significant departures due to perceived disunity.