Burnham allies confident of No 10 ‘coronation’ after surge in backers
Some Labour MPs still want former mayor to face ‘scrutiny’ of ideas through contested leadership race
TL;DR
- Andy Burnham's Labour leadership campaign has gained momentum due to a surge in MP support after his byelection win.
- Burnham's team aims for a 'coronation-style' transfer of power, seeking to avoid a lengthy leadership contest.
- Some MPs believe Burnham should still face a contest to allow for scrutiny of his ideas.
- Wes Streeting is also considered a potential challenger, though he may delay triggering a contest.
- Labour party rules require candidates to secure nominations from 20% of the parliamentary party to force a contest.
- Keir Starmer, as the current leader, would be on the ballot automatically unless he steps down.
- Burnham's team believes he is Labour's best hope against Nigel Farage's party, citing Starmer's unpopularity.
- Some allies express concern that Starmer's team is not acknowledging the need for change.