Labour MPs Revolt Over Burnham Byelection Block Amid 'Lies' Accusation
Approximately fifty Labour MPs have put their names to a formal letter objecting to the party's controversial decision to block Andy Burnham from standing in next month's Gorton and Denton byelection. This significant internal rebellion comes as the Manchester mayor has publicly accused Downing Street sources of spreading falsehoods about the circumstances surrounding his application to contest the Manchester seat.
Burnham Accuses No 10 of Dishonesty Over Byelection Decision
The political storm intensified when Andy Burnham directly challenged suggestions from unnamed allies of Keir Starmer that he had been clearly informed any request to the National Executive Committee (NEC) to stand would be refused. Reacting to a social media post by ITV's political editor Robert Peston, which indicated sources close to the Prime Minister viewed Burnham's move as an attempt to destabilise Starmer, Burnham stated unequivocally: "This is simply untrue."
Peston subsequently reported that a second source had corroborated Burnham's account, noting the mayor was seeking an urgent discussion with Number 10 regarding the briefing. The letter signed by the group of Labour MPs warns the Prime Minister that blocking Burnham represents a "real gift" to Reform UK, potentially undermining Labour's prospects in the crucial February 26th contest.
Starmer and Reed Defend NEC Decision
Keir Starmer moved to calm the internal dissent on Monday, acknowledging Burnham's effective work as mayor but justifying the NEC officers' decision. He argued that allowing Burnham to resign as Mayor of Greater Manchester would trigger an unnecessary and costly mayoral election, diverting vital resources from essential electoral battles. "Resources, whether that's money or people, need to be focused on the elections that we must have, not elections that we don't have to have," Starmer explained.
On Tuesday, Housing Secretary Steve Reed echoed this stance, stating that while critics were entitled to their opinions, the NEC officers had voted "overwhelmingly" in favour of the move to block Burnham's candidacy.
Battle for Gorton and Denton Heats Up
Meanwhile, the campaign for the Gorton and Denton seat, which Labour secured with just over 50% of the vote in 2024, is now fully underway. Reform UK faced ridicule from rival MPs after one of their representatives, Lee Anderson, posted a campaign photo on social media from the wrong constituency. Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner pointed out that Anderson was campaigning outside a hotel in the neighbouring Ashton-under-Lyne area, quipping to the Daily Mirror about Reform's geographical confusion.
Speculation continues over who will ultimately be selected as Labour's candidate, with interviews ongoing and a decision expected by Saturday. Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig has ruled herself out, while Bury Council leader Eamonn O'Brien is reported to have submitted an application.
Increased Competition from Greens and Reform
Labour now faces a multifaceted challenge in the byelection. Alongside a determined campaign from Reform UK, the Green Party sees a renewed opportunity following Burnham's exclusion. Party officials believe they have a genuine chance of success, with local members yet to finalise their candidate. Hannah Spencer, leader of the Green group on Trafford Council, is considered a likely contender, adding another layer of competition to what promises to be a closely watched and contentious political battle.
