Rayner backs Burnham to stand in Gorton by-election amid NEC pressure
Rayner backs Burnham to stand in Gorton by-election amid NEC pressure
Angela Rayner backs Andy Burnham to contest the Gorton and Denton by-election, signaling support amid NEC debates that could shape Labour's leadership path.
Angela Rayner publicly signalled support for Andy Burnham to stand in the Gorton and Denton by-election at Labour's north west regional conference, saying she does not want him blocked from contest. Burnham has until 5pm on Saturday to tell the NEC whether he will seek nomination, with a decision due to be announced the following day. He has repeatedly stressed he is focused on his role as Manchester mayor and urged people not to rush to conclusions about his plans.
If Burnham contests and wins the by-election, it could set him up for a leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer. Some of Starmer's allies on Labour's ruling NEC are expected to seek to block his bid, highlighting the fractious nature of the race inside the party. Under Labour rules, elected mayors must obtain permission from the NEC before pursuing nomination as Labour MPs. The by-election could occur as early as next month after former Labour minister Andrew Gwynne formally resigned from the House of Commons, citing medical advice to not return to work.
Burnham has not confirmed whether he will stand, and his comments indicate a careful approach while the party navigates a tight timetable and internal divisions. Rayner's backing, following her own resignation as deputy prime minister and housing secretary last year after an ethics ruling, demonstrates her continued influence among backbench MPs and Labour members, and could weigh on the NEC's eventual decision.
