politics
January 22, 2026
Starmer’s allies launch ‘Stop Andy Burnham’ campaign to block parliamentary return
Speculation has spread over whether Burnham will attempt to return to pursue a Labour leadership bid
TL;DR
- Allies of Keir Starmer are reportedly running a "Stop Andy Burnham" campaign to prevent his return to Parliament.
- A byelection has been triggered by the resignation of MP Andrew Gwynne due to ill health.
- Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, previously served as an MP and has been rumored to have leadership ambitions.
- Selection for the byelection requires approval from the Labour NEC, where Starmer's allies reportedly hold a majority.
- Concerns include the financial cost of a mayoral byelection and the potential for destabilizing the party.
- Unions are a significant force on the NEC and have indicated discomfort with perceived interference.
- The Fire Brigades Union has stated it will "fiercely resist any attempts to stitch up the selection."
- Andrew Gwynne is stepping down due to ill health and is also subject to a parliamentary standards investigation.
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