Andy Burnham finally confirms he will challenge Starmer to be prime minister

Politics
5 Jun 2026 • 4:22 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Andy Burnham finally confirms he will challenge Starmer to be prime minister

  • Andy Burnham has confirmed he would challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership if he wins the Makerfield by-election.
  • A recent poll places Mr Burnham ahead with 49 per cent, while his Reform opponent, Robert Kenyon, is on 39 per cent.
  • Mr Burnham suggested the law around carrying knives for religious reasons should be reviewed following the death of Henry Nowak.
  • He also stated that anti-racism guidance for police has not "got it right" and supported its review.
  • During a BBC Question Time special, Kenyon faced scrutiny over past social media comments, including alleged sexism and engaging with a Holocaust denier, but refused to apologise to Carol Vorderman.

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