Housing Minister Steve Reed asserts that Prime Minister Keir Starmer remains steady and focused on key priorities, despite mounting pressure from within the Labour Party. Reed’s comments come amid Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s announcement of plans to re-enter Parliament, signaling a potential bid for party leadership.
Burnham’s Bold Move to Westminster
Andy Burnham confirmed his intention to contest the Makerfield by-election following the decision by current Labour MP Josh Simons to step aside. This development positions Burnham for a return to the House of Commons, where he aims to “make politics work properly for people” and drive necessary changes.
The party’s National Executive Committee must approve Burnham’s candidacy, with a decision expected soon. Observers view this as a precursor to a broader leadership contest, especially given Labour’s recent struggles in polls and local elections.
Challenges in Makerfield
Makerfield has elected Labour MPs since its creation in 1983, but recent local election results show Reform UK dominating all eight wards in the seat. Polling from Britain Predicts indicates Reform leads by 13 points if an election occurred today.
Reform leader Nigel Farage pledges to commit significant resources to the race, calling it one of the most critical by-elections in decades. A Burnham victory could signal Labour’s ability to rebound and counter Reform’s rise, while a loss might accelerate internal challenges.
Stroud MP Simon Opher, a Burnham supporter, acknowledges the difficulty but states on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme: “He could win the next election for Labour.”
Starmer’s Defenders Rally
Reed, appearing on TV and radio, dismisses talk of crisis and urges unity. He tells Sky News that public frustration with services and the economy targets the leader but warns against rapid leadership changes, referencing the Conservatives’ instability with five prime ministers in eight years.
“What we need to do is all of us come together behind the Prime Minister and focus on how we can deliver the change the British public want to see faster,” Reed says.
Reed concedes Starmer’s low popularity but emphasizes steady governance over turmoil.
Wider Party Tensions
Recent resignations, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, heighten speculation. Figures like Angela Rayner and Ed Miliband are seen as potential contenders. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticizes the infighting, warning it will stall government reforms post-local election setbacks.
“The Labour Party has now descended into civil war. And while they’re sharpening their knives and plotting in the bars of Westminster, nobody is running the country,” Badenoch states.
The pound recently dipped below $1.34, its lowest in a month, amid uncertainty. Whitehall sources indicate civil servants may pause major work until leadership clarity emerges.
