Keir Starmer's Labour party has dealt a bitter blow to former mayor Andy Burnham by blocking his bid to return to parliament, sparking fears that the move could split the party. Burnham, who has long been seen as a potential future leader of the party, had written to Labour's ruling body to ask for permission to stand in Gorton and Denton by-elections. He promised a "hopeful and unifying campaign" - but his application was rejected, with Starmer himself among those opposing it.
Burnham's decision to seek re-entry into politics comes after he abandoned Westminster in 2017 to become Greater Manchester's first ever mayor. Throughout his time as mayor, Burnham made no secret of his ambition to become prime minister one day. However, his repeated attempts to become Labour party leader had been unsuccessful, and it seemed that he was content with a quieter life in the north.
The decision by Starmer and the Labour committee to block Burnham's application has left many questioning whether this is a prelude to Burnham's eventual departure from the party altogether. Some may view it as a classic example of Labour stitch-up tactics, but others say that it will not put an end to Burnham's ambitions.
Burnham had promised to step down as mayor if he secured the by-elections. His future in politics remains uncertain, and it is unclear whether this setback will mark a turning point for him or merely a minor blip on his path to the top.
Burnham's decision to seek re-entry into politics comes after he abandoned Westminster in 2017 to become Greater Manchester's first ever mayor. Throughout his time as mayor, Burnham made no secret of his ambition to become prime minister one day. However, his repeated attempts to become Labour party leader had been unsuccessful, and it seemed that he was content with a quieter life in the north.
The decision by Starmer and the Labour committee to block Burnham's application has left many questioning whether this is a prelude to Burnham's eventual departure from the party altogether. Some may view it as a classic example of Labour stitch-up tactics, but others say that it will not put an end to Burnham's ambitions.
Burnham had promised to step down as mayor if he secured the by-elections. His future in politics remains uncertain, and it is unclear whether this setback will mark a turning point for him or merely a minor blip on his path to the top.