Why Starmer has been accused of trying to ‘sabotage’ Andy Burnham

WorldPolitics
19 May 2026 • 4:54 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Why Starmer has been accused of trying to ‘sabotage’ Andy Burnham

  • Sir Keir Starmer has suggested the UK could rejoin the EU “years down the line”, a comment seen as undermining Andy Burnham’s stance on Brexit.
  • Allies of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham accuse the Prime Minister and Downing Street of sabotaging his campaign by not ruling out a Labour pledge to rejoin the EU.
  • Mr Burnham has distanced himself from his previous pro-Remain views as he contests the Makerfield by-election, a constituency that voted to Leave.
  • It was revealed that Sir Keir’s allies have warned Labour MPs that Mr Burnham could potentially reinstate former leader Jeremy Corbyn.
  • New polling indicates Andy Burnham would defeat Sir Keir Starmer in a Labour leadership contest, despite Sir Keir’s commitment to remain in his role.

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