Will Starmer resign? Labour ministers up pressure after Burnham wins by-election

WorldPolitics
19 Jun 2026 • 10:29 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Will Starmer resign? Labour ministers up pressure after Burnham wins by-election

  • Andy Burnham achieved a landslide victory in the Makerfield by-election, securing almost 55 per cent of the vote, which has intensified calls for him to become the next Labour leader.
  • Following Burnham's win, numerous Labour MPs, including cabinet members and key figures, are pressuring Sir Keir Starmer to resign and facilitate a 'coronation' for Burnham to avert a protracted leadership contest.
  • The prime minister has defiantly refused to step down, asserting his intention to fight any leadership challenge and urging the party to unite to avoid 'plunging the country into chaos'.
  • Buoyed by his victory, Andy Burnham outlined his vision for Britain, promising to prioritise economic reindustrialisation, end 'trickle-down' economics, and reform the 'unfair' immigration system, aiming to revitalise the Labour Party.
  • Prominent trade union leaders, including Sharon Graham of Unite, have also joined the calls for an 'orderly timetable' for a leadership election, urging Starmer to step down.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved