By Shahnoor Saqib
LONDON — British politics was thrown into fresh uncertainty after Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham confirmed he will seek a return to Parliament through a potential by-election in Makerfield, a move widely viewed as a possible step toward challenging Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour Party leadership.
The dramatic development came after Labour MP Josh Simons announced he would step down from Parliament to clear the path for Burnham to contest the seat. Simons said the country needed “urgent and radical reform” and described Burnham as the right figure to lead Labour into a new political phase.
Burnham said he will formally ask Labour’s ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) for permission to stand in the by-election, stressing that he wants to “make politics work for people” again and focus on affordability and living standards.
The situation has intensified pressure on Starmer’s leadership following growing unrest inside Labour after disappointing local election performances and high-profile resignations within the party. Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s resignation earlier this week further fueled speculation over a possible leadership struggle.
Political analysts say Burnham’s potential return to Westminster could reshape Labour’s future direction. The former cabinet minister and long-serving MP remains popular among many Labour supporters and has frequently been discussed as a possible future party leader.
However, Burnham’s route back to Parliament is far from guaranteed. Labour’s NEC previously blocked his attempt to stand in the Gorton and Denton by-election earlier this year, citing concerns over triggering another mayoral contest in Greater Manchester.
The upcoming Makerfield contest is also expected to become a major political battleground. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has already signaled his party will heavily target the seat, while recent polling suggests Labour’s traditional strongholds are becoming increasingly competitive.
Burnham’s possible departure from the Greater Manchester mayoralty could additionally trigger another high-stakes regional election, creating further political risks for Labour at a time when the party is attempting to stabilize internal divisions.
While Downing Street has indicated it will not directly block Burnham’s candidacy, Labour insiders remain divided over whether his return would strengthen or further destabilize the party ahead of future national elections.