Andy Burnham has been mooted as a candidate to replace Prime Minister if he becomes Makerfield MP
(Image: Kenny Brown | Manchester Evening News)
Andy Burnham says he will not call an early election if he replaces Keir Starmer as prime minister.
It comes after speculation in recent days that the Greater Manchester Mayor was considering the move if he was was successful in the Makerfield by-election and subsequently went for the Labour leadership, citing the need for a fresh mandate.
Nigel Farage had previously demanded that Labour call a snap general election if Sir Keir Starmer is ousted, saying voters “have had enough” of political parties constantly changing prime ministers.
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But a spokesperson for Burnham today said he had ruled out calling a snap election.
It means he’d likely govern to 2029 if he successfully challenges Sir Keir this summer. The announcement will have come as a relief to some Labour MPs worried about the possibility of losing their seats in the event of an early General Election.
Burnham’s leadership bid hinges on winning the June 18 by-election, currently a tight race against Reform UK.
