A member of Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) has stated that the party's leadership contest rules should not be altered to accommodate Andy Burnham's potential candidacy. This comes as Health Secretary Wes Streeting prepares to launch a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, provided he secures sufficient MP support to trigger a contest.
Burnham's Allies Push for Extended Contest
Allies of Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester Mayor, have been lobbying the NEC to extend the leadership election timeline, allowing him to return to Parliament via a by-election. They argue that a longer nomination period would enable Burnham to secure a seat and participate. Such a move could prolong the contest to approximately three months, extending the internal turmoil within the party.
However, Luke Akehurst, the Labour MP for North Durham and a staunch Starmer supporter, dismissed these calls. Speaking to Sky News' Sophy Ridge, Akehurst said, "If a contest started right now, I just don't see how it's physically possible for Andy Burnham to participate." He emphasized that prime ministers must be MPs or members of the House of Lords, a precedent last seen in 1963. "I don't think the Labour party's rules and procedures are there to be tweaked to suit one particular person," Akehurst added.
NEC Previously Blocked Burnham's Return
The NEC had previously blocked Burnham's return to Parliament in January to avert a potential leadership challenge. The party's ruling body, including the Prime Minister, voted overwhelmingly against Burnham's request to seek selection for the Gorton and Denton by-election. This decision sparked widespread anger among Labour MPs and union supporters.
Deputy Leader Angela Rayner, recently cleared by HMRC of deliberate wrongdoing over her tax affairs, expressed support for Burnham's return. "If somebody wants to come and help, and be part of the future that we can deliver, then absolutely we shouldn't be blocking people," she said. Rayner also dismissed speculation of a deal with Burnham, stating, "I'm not doing deals."
NEC's Discretion and Internal Dynamics
Another NEC member, Abdi Duale, suggested that Labour officials are "backing away" from blocking Burnham's return, as reported by Politico. He noted that the Prime Minister's influence over the NEC may be waning post-election, with colleagues reassessing loyalties. The NEC retains discretion over leadership contest rules, which can be "varied by the consent of the NEC."
Akehurst warned that a leadership contest could result in a candidate "significantly to the left of Keir Starmer, me or Wes Streeting." He urged the party to avoid a "car crash" of a leadership election and focus on delivery, adding that Labour members dislike removing their leaders.
Economic Context Amid Political Turmoil
Chancellor Rachel Reeves cautioned that a leadership battle could plunge the UK "into chaos" and threaten economic recovery. This follows news that the UK economy grew by 0.6% in the first quarter of 2026, defying expectations of a 0.2% contraction. The growth was driven by a 0.8% boost in services, despite the economic impact of the Iran war. Reeves asserted that the government has "the right economic plan" and that "the economy is starting to bear fruit."
