Keir Starmer has stated that he envisions Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, playing a prominent role in a future Labour government. Speaking from the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, Starmer expressed his desire for Burnham to assume a significant position if Labour secures victory in the upcoming Makerfield byelection.
Starmer Rules Out Stepping Down
During an interview with Sky's Beth Rigby, Starmer firmly dismissed any notion of a leadership contest, asserting his commitment to remain at the helm. 'I am not going to walk away, I am going to fight,' he declared, reinforcing his intention to continue leading the party.
Cabinet Role for Burnham
Starmer's comments signal a potential cabinet position for Burnham, a former Labour leadership candidate. The byelection, set for Thursday, is seen as a crucial test for Labour's electoral prospects. Starmer's pledge underscores his strategy to unite key figures within the party as they prepare for the next general election.
- Starmer spoke at the G7 summit in France.
- He emphasized no leadership contest is needed.
- The Makerfield byelection is on Thursday.
