Starmer vows to hold leadership amid Makerfield byelection

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to fight any challenge to his leadership as two prominent Labour figures, Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting, have declared they would stand in a contest if one is triggered. The political maneuvering comes amid a critical byelection in Makerfield, where Burnham is the Labour candidate.

Starmer, who became Prime Minister following Labour's victory in the 2024 general election, stated he would not walk away from the job. He argued that a leadership battle would plunge the country into chaos and distract from urgent international issues, including the war in Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East. He said voters expect the government to focus on governing rather than internal party fights.

Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, confirmed his intention during a BBC Question Time program focused on the Makerfield constituency. He stated that if he wins the byelection on June 18, he would seek to join any leadership contest to represent his constituents at the highest level. He acknowledged that Wes Streeting had already signaled his candidacy. Burnham also indicated he would be sympathetic to reversing a recent increase in employer...