How Starmer will try and appease Burnham if he wins Makerfield by-election

LocalPolitics
17 Jun 2026 • 4:07 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

How Starmer will try and appease Burnham if he wins Makerfield by-election

  • Sir Keir Starmer, speaking from the G7 summit, described Andy Burnham as a "huge asset" and expressed hope he would win the Makerfield by-election.
  • The prime minister indicated he would offer Mr Burnham a cabinet position if he wins the by-election and returns to Westminster, stating he would "play a big part in the Labour government".
  • Amid threats to his leadership, Sir Keir insisted he would not step down, repeating that he would "fight" for his position and does not feel "angry" or "bitter".
  • Wes Streeting has suggested he is ready to initiate a Labour leadership contest as early as next week, urging Sir Keir to outline a timetable for his departure if Mr Burnham is victorious.
  • Andy Burnham is widely considered the favourite to win the Makerfield by-election, with opinion polls supporting this prediction.

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