Voices: I’ve covered Labour for decades – ask me anything as Andy Burnham wins Makerfield by-election

Welcome to an exclusive Ask Me Anything session with me, John Rentoul, chief political commentator at The Independent.

To see my questions and answers, scroll down. Make sure to press the “load more” button to read the full Q&A.

Andy Burnham’s landslide victory in the Makerfield by-election has transformed the political landscape overnight.

The former Greater Manchester mayor swept to victory over Reform UK by 9,231 votes, immediately intensifying speculation about the future of Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership and setting the stage for what could become the most consequential Labour leadership contest in a generation.

Burnham has described the result as a “turning point” and said Labour has a “final chance to change”, language that has only fuelled speculation about a potential leadership challenge.

Sir Keir Starmer, meanwhile, has congratulated his rival but insists he has no intention of stepping aside and is prepared to fight any contest for the leadership.

The result is also a setback for Nigel Farage. Reform UK had hoped to build on its strong local election performance, but Burnham’s commanding win has raised fresh questions about whether Labour can still unite enough voters to block Reform advances in key battlegrounds.

At the same time, divisions on the right continue to attract attention, with Rupert Lowe’s Restore Britain seeking to establish itself as an alternative force alongside Reform UK.

How to join the Q&A

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Whatever happens next, Makerfield appears likely to mark the beginning of a new phase in British politics. Has Burnham demonstrated a winning formula for Labour? Can Starmer survive the growing pressure on his leadership? What role could figures such as Wes Streeting play in the months ahead? And what does the result tell us about the challenge posed by Reform UK?

Join me today (Friday 19 June) between 1pm and 2pm BST for the Q&A.

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