Why Starmer is refusing to back down despite Andy Burnham’s by-election victory

• Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to participate in a Labour leadership contest if one is initiated, stating he would not abandon his position.
• Andy Burnham, the now-former Greater Manchester mayor, achieved a substantial victory in the Makerfield by-election, securing a lead of 9,231 votes over Reform UK.
• Following his by-election success, allies of Andy Burnham are advocating for him to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership and assume the role of Prime Minister.
• Reports indicate that the current Prime Minister is amassing a 'war chest' to fund a potential leadership campaign, as he faces challenges from both Andy Burnham and former health secretary Wes Streeting.
• In his victory address, Mr Burnham remarked that his win could signify a 'turning point' for a nation where he believes 'politics isn’t working'.

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Burnham by-election live: Defiant Starmer says he will stand in Labour leadership battle after Burnham’s Makerfield win