- Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to campaign for Andy Burnham in the upcoming Makerfield by-election on 18 June, urging the entire Labour movement to get involved.
- The Prime Minister aims to divert attention from leadership speculation, instead highlighting his government's recent economic achievements and policy announcements.
- Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, is seeking to return to Westminster, with widespread speculation about a potential future leadership challenge against Starmer.
- Despite suggestions from allies that Burnham may not immediately challenge for leadership, his call for a “new path” and promise to “change Labour” fuel expectations of a contest.
- The by-election in Makerfield will also feature candidates from Reform UK, the Conservatives, and the Green Party, with the Liberal Democrats yet to announce theirs.
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