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Everything we know as Andy Burnham blocked from standing in Gorton and Denton by-election
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Labour’s National Executive Committee has blocked Mr Burnham from standing
Andy Burnham (Image: M.E.N.)
Here is what we know about Labour’s decision to block Andy Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election
- Andy Burnham has been blocked from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election by the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC). The NEC cited concerns over the cost and disruption of a potential mayoral by-election in Greater Manchester if Burnham were to leave his current post.
- The decision was made by a 10-member NEC sub-group chaired by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood on Sunday morning. The party stated that holding a mayoral by-election would place a disproportionate strain on campaign resources ahead of the upcoming local and devolved elections.
- Labour’s official statement emphasised that the party could not risk its control of Greater Manchester by triggering an unnecessary mayoral contest. They praised Burnham’s performance as mayor and said resources should be focused on tackling the cost of living crisis.
- The NEC’s move has sparked controversy within Labour, with senior figures like deputy leader Lucy Powell and Cabinet minister Ed Miliband arguing that local members should decide if Burnham could stand. They had publicly advocated for grassroots involvement in the selection process.
- Some Labour MPs expressed strong dissatisfaction, predicting the decision could harm the party’s chances in the by-election. Critics, including former Cabinet minister Louise Haigh, called the move “incredibly disappointing” and urged the NEC to reconsider.
- The Gorton and Denton seat was previously held comfortably by Labour, but recent polling declines mean the party now faces stiff competition from Reform UK and the Green Party. The controversy has raised concerns about Labour’s unity and electoral prospects in the area.
- Other MPs supported the NEC’s decision, arguing that continued speculation about Burnham’s candidacy was causing internal division. They urged the party to focus on unity and winning the by-election rather than engaging in further infighting.
- Supporters of the decision, such as Phil Brickell and John Slinger, said it allows the party to move past recent turmoil. They believe a clear resolution will help Labour concentrate on campaigning and presenting a united front to voters.
Ready the full story here: Andy Burnham BLOCKED from standing as candidate in Greater Manchester by-election
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