Summary
Fifty Labour MPs have signed a letter asking the Labour Party's leadership to reconsider blocking Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from running in a parliamentary by-election. They believe Burnham could be Labour's best chance to win the vacant seat, but Sir Keir Starmer defended the decision, saying resources should go to more essential elections.
Key Facts
- Approximately 50 Labour MPs signed a letter objecting to blocking Andy Burnham from a by-election.
- The MPs warned blocking Burnham could help Reform UK in the by-election.
- The letter suggested there was no valid reason to stop Burnham from running.
- Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer said the decision prevents resource diversion to non-essential elections.
- The letter was sent to Sir Keir Starmer, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and General Secretary Hollie Ridley.
- The Labour Party's National Executive Committee voted to deny Burnham's candidacy for the seat.
- Labour held the seat with a 13,000 majority, but new challengers could make it harder to win again.
- Former Labour minister Harriet Harman suggested focusing on winning the by-election instead of the dispute.
