London Mayor Sadiq Khan has thrown his support behind Andy Burnham, saying the Greater Manchester mayor should be free to stand as an MP if he wants to.
With the clock ticking on Burnham’s decision—set for 5pm today—the comments come as the political spotlight intensifies around the former Labour leadership contender.
Speaking at the Fabian Society’s annual conference in London on Saturday, Khan didn’t just offer words of encouragement—he hinted he’d even be willing to campaign for Burnham or whichever candidate represents Labour in the upcoming by-election.
By-Election Opportunity in Gorton and Denton
The chance for Burnham to return to Parliament has arisen after Andrew Gwynne, MP for Gorton and Denton, resigned last Friday, citing health concerns.
This opens the door for a by-election, and Burnham is now being discussed as a potential contender.
Burnham, who previously represented Leigh in Parliament from 2001 to 2017, has long been seen as a potential rival to Sir Keir Starmer within Labour.
He has until 5pm today to make his decision, and if he chooses to run, he will need approval from Labour’s national executive committee (NEC).
Party Figures Call for Freedom of Choice
Khan was clear in his support: “If Andy Burnham wants to be a member of Parliament, he should be allowed to be a member of Parliament,” he said.
He added that he believes in assembling the best possible team, and would try to help by knocking on doors for Burnham or any Labour candidate.
Labour Deputy Leader Lucy Powell echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the choice should be Burnham’s and the local members’.
Powell described Burnham as “incredibly popular” and praised his work transforming Manchester, but stopped short of explicitly endorsing his candidacy.
Internal Party Tensions Over Burnham’s Potential Run
Reports suggest that some NEC members close to the Prime Minister may attempt to block Burnham’s candidacy.
Their concerns reportedly include avoiding destabilization of the Government and preventing another by-election for the Greater Manchester mayoralty.
Despite these tensions, other Labour figures—including Angela Rayner—are expected to support Burnham’s right to stand.
Powell stressed that selecting the “very best candidate” should be the priority and reiterated that Burnham has until the official deadline to make up his mind.
Challenges Await Burnham
Should Burnham decide to contest the seat, several hurdles remain.
He would need to step down from his role as Greater Manchester mayor, gain NEC approval, and navigate a competitive field, including a strong challenge from Reform UK.
Labour secured the Gorton and Denton seat with 51% of the vote in 2024, but the political landscape has shifted, making it a three-way marginal seat.
Reform UK has vowed to fight hard for it, while Green Party leader Zack Polanski is reportedly considering running, adding another challenge for Labour.
Mixed Messages from Labour Leadership
Within the party, opinions differ on Burnham’s next move.
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock suggested Burnham is doing a “good job” as mayor, hinting he should remain in that role.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy also warned against another leadership challenge, noting it could trigger a national election.
Burnham, who has served as Greater Manchester mayor since 2017 and previously ran for Labour leadership twice, now faces a critical choice that could reshape both his career and the local political scene.
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