Labour MPs Revolt as Burnham Blocked from By-Election Bid
More than 50 Labour MPs have written to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, expressing their "anxiety and anger" over the decision to prevent Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing in the upcoming Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election. This internal dissent comes as Reform UK and the Green Party see an opportunity to secure a significant victory in the contest scheduled for 26 February 2026.
By-Election Called After MP Stands Down
The by-election was triggered after suspended Labour MP Andrew Gwynne decided to step down, creating a vacancy that many believed could serve as a platform for Mr Burnham's return to Westminster. However, Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) has ruled against allowing him to run, effectively halting any immediate leadership ambitions he might harbour.
Prime Minister Starmer has defended this move, arguing that it would divert party resources away from the local elections in May and potentially necessitate another by-election for Mr Burnham's mayoral position. Despite this justification, the decision has sparked considerable unrest within the party ranks.
Internal Backlash and Polling Insights
In a meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party, Attorney General Lord Richard Hermer, a key ally of Sir Keir, faced "plenty of gripes" from MPs regarding the ruling. Critics argue that the prime minister has mishandled the situation, treating Mr Burnham unfairly and weakening his own position.
The discontent is underscored by an exclusive Sky News poll, which reveals that only Andy Burnham is viewed as potentially doing a better job as prime minister than Sir Keir Starmer. Specifically, 30% of the public believe Mr Burnham would perform better, compared to 12% who think he would do worse. In contrast, other potential leadership contenders such as Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting, and Shabana Mahmood received less favourable ratings.
Reform and Greens See Opportunity
With Labour embroiled in internal strife, Reform UK and the Green Party are positioning themselves to capitalise on the situation. Nigel Farage of Reform UK has suggested that an "anti-Starmer vote" could swing in their favour, especially with Mr Burnham out of the race. The Greens are also gearing up for a strong campaign, with plans to announce a candidate soon and a party source stating they are "throwing the kitchen sink at this" in hopes of a win.
Historically, Labour secured the Gorton and Denton seat with a majority of 13,413 in the 2024 general election, but Reform came second with 14.1% and the Greens third with 13.2%, indicating a competitive landscape.
MPs Warn of Electoral Risks
In their letter to Sir Keir, the Labour MPs warned that losing the seat to Reform UK would be "unimaginable" and called for the NEC to reconvene and reconsider the decision. They argued that there is "no legitimate reason" to block Mr Burnham and that doing so risks perpetuating the perception of politics as a remote stitch-up by a small elite in London.
A separate letter from the Tribune group's executive committee has also been sent, highlighting the breadth of concern within the party. As the by-election approaches, all eyes will be on whether Labour can unite or if opposition parties will seize this chance to make gains.
