Key facts
- Andy Burnham won the Makerfield byelection with 55% of the vote and a majority of 9,231.
- Burnham's win has prompted speculation about a potential challenge to Keir Starmer's Labour leadership.
- Senior Labour figures are divided on how to proceed, with some calling for an expedited leadership contest.
- Others, close to Starmer, suggest focusing on finding a replacement for Burnham as Mayor of Greater Manchester.
Andy Burnham has secured a significant victory in the Makerfield byelection, winning 55% of the vote and a majority of 9,231. This win has intensified speculation about a potential challenge to Keir Starmer's leadership of the Labour Party, with some senior figures urging an expedited leadership contest.
Burnham, in his victory speech, declared the result "a turning point" and a vote for "change" and "more power for the north." Allies suggest his return to Westminster could lead to a leadership showdown with Starmer.
However, there are differing views within the party on the next steps. Harriet Harman, former deputy leader, proposed that leadership contenders meet to agree on a process for MPs to choose the leader. Conversely, Steve Reed, a close ally of Starmer and Communities Secretary, suggested the focus should be on finding a replacement for Burnham as Mayor of Greater Manchester to prevent Reform UK from gaining control.
The byelection saw a 59% turnout, with Labour securing 55% of the vote compared to Reform UK's 35%.