Summary
Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with Andy Burnham about Labour's decision to block Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election. Burnham was not informed earlier that he would be blocked. The Labour Party's panel blocked Burnham due to the potential costs of a subsequent mayoral election.
Key Facts
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the issue with Andy Burnham after Labour blocked him from the by-election.
- Labour's decision was based on concerns about the cost of finding a new mayor if Burnham left his current position.
- Starmer denied claims that Burnham was told beforehand about being blocked.
- Labour's National Executive Committee, including Starmer, voted to bar Burnham from candidacy.
- The decision has led to 50 Labour MPs signing a letter asking for a reconsideration.
- Reform UK has selected Matt Goodwin as their candidate for the by-election.
- The by-election became necessary after MP Andrew Gwynne resigned for health reasons.
- Labour had a significant lead in the previous election in the Gorton and Denton area.
