Summary
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, was not allowed to run as a Labour candidate in an upcoming parliamentary by-election. The Labour Party's National Executive Committee (NEC) decided that it would be too costly to replace Burnham as mayor if he became an MP. Despite his disappointment, Burnham accepted the decision and will not run as an independent candidate.
Key Facts
- Andy Burnham wanted to run as a Labour candidate in a parliamentary by-election.
- The Labour Party's NEC stopped him from standing for election.
- The main reason cited was the high cost for the party to elect a new mayor if Burnham left his current role.
- Burnham expressed disappointment but accepted the NEC's decision.
- He considered himself well-suited to defend the Labour seat against opponents like Reform UK.
- Burnham has been seen as a potential alternative leader within the Labour Party.
- Despite being blocked, Burnham will still campaign for Labour in the by-election.
- The Labour Party previously won the Gorton and Denton seat with a significant majority.
