Andy Burnham could become Prime Minister within weeks after Keir Starmer announces resignation
Just five weeks ago, Andy Burnham wasn’t even an MP.
Today, the newly-elected Makerfield Labour MP is the overwhelming favourite to become Britain’s next Prime Minister following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation.
In what has been an extraordinary few weeks for Wigan, Burnham secured victory in the Makerfield by-election in the early hours of Friday morning before being sworn into Parliament. Now, after Starmer announced he is stepping down as Labour leader and Prime Minister, Burnham has confirmed he will stand for the party leadership.
If successful, he could be in Number 10 by 19 July.
The dramatic chain of events has transformed a local by-election into a story of national significance, with Wigan potentially about to send a sitting MP straight to Downing Street.
Burnham launches Leadership Bid
Following Starmer’s resignation announcement, Burnham confirmed he would put himself forward to lead the Labour Party.
Paying tribute to the outgoing Prime Minister, he said:”Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period.”
He added that the country expected “stability, seriousness and a continued focus on the issues that matter most” and pledged to provide exactly that.
Wes Streeting has ruled himself out of the race.
Sworn in as Makerfield MP and first day in Westminster
Burnham took his parliamentary oath in Westminster today, formally becoming MP for Makerfield following his by-election victory in the early hours of Friday morning.
Shortly after being sworn in, he shared a selfie with Labour MPs gathered in Parliament – the photo taken in the chamber and widely seen as an early signal of support as the leadership race begins.
The moment marks a remarkable start to his return to Westminster, coming only days after winning the seat and immediately being placed at the centre of a potential leadership contest.
Away from Westminster, Burnham also shared an emotional farewell to staff at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority after nearly a decade as Mayor.
He posted on social media after receiving a leaving gift from staff – a chair marked with the slogan: “This is Manchester we do things differently here”
He wrote:
“Oh my goodness, it was SO hard to say goodbye to everyone at the GMCA. 🥹
Thank you all for everything. I have loved working with you and will miss you so much. 🙏🏻
You couldn’t have given me a better leaving present! 🙌🏻”
From Makerfield to Number 10?
If Burnham wins the leadership contest, he could be Prime Minister within weeks of becoming an MP.
For the Makerfield constituency of Wigan, it would mean their newly elected representative, sworn in today, could be walking into Downing Street by mid-July.
Also, I WILL be trying my best to make sure he sticks to his promise of not leaving Makerfield and Wigan behind.
