A new YouGov poll suggests that Labour party members would prefer Andy Burnham as leader over Keir Starmer, and believe the party is more likely to win the next general election under Burnham's leadership.
Key Findings
When asked to rank potential leadership candidates, Labour members placed Burnham ahead of Starmer. In a head-to-head comparison, Burnham was preferred by a margin of 3 to 2. Furthermore, 66% of members think Starmer has done a fairly or very good job as Prime Minister, yet only 28% want him to lead the party into the next election.
Favourability Ratings
Angela Rayner, the former deputy PM, has the highest combined favourability ratings among potential candidates, but Burnham leads on 'very favourable' ratings alone. This reflects that members like Rayner but do not see her as the best choice for leader.
The poll also indicates that Labour members believe the party is likely to win the next election with Burnham as leader, but not with Starmer. These findings are considered the most significant in the report.
Political Context
Last week, Starmer delivered a 'put up or shut up' message to his critics. Wes Streeting declined to launch a leadership bid but expressed lack of confidence in the PM and resigned. Andy Burnham's potential candidacy suggests a leadership challenge may only be postponed.
No byelection polling is available yet from Makerfield, where Burnham is seeking a seat. However, the YouGov data provides insight into member sentiment that could influence future events.
Today's Agenda
- 9.30am: Keir Starmer chairs cabinet.
- 10am: James Graham and Marina Hyde give evidence on BBC charter renewal.
- 11.30am: David Lammy takes questions in the Commons.
- Noon: Downing Street lobby briefing.
- 12.10pm: Yvette Cooper speaks on global food crisis.
- After 12.30pm: Heidi Alexander on HS2.
- Afternoon: King's speech debate on energy policy.
- 1.30pm: Rhun ap Iorwerth statement to Senedd.
- 2pm: MSPs elect first minister.
- 2.30pm: Anne Longfield on grooming gangs inquiry.
- 4pm: Birmingham city council meeting.
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