Starmer aides prepare for potential leadership contest with Burnham
7 reported1 unconfirmed
According to a single Guardian report, aides to Prime Minister Keir Starmer are “war-gaming” how to win a potential Labour leadership contest against Andy Burnham, who is expected to return to Westminster if he wins the Makerfield byelection next week. Downing Street sources said Starmer has spent the last fortnight thinking about his future but is now “hellbent” on fighting any contest. His team is working through scenarios including sacking ministers who publicly support Burnham. However, several close allies acknowledged that Starmer’s future may be out of his hands, with one loyalist minister saying, “When the herd moves, it moves.” Burnham stated last week he would seek to join any potential Labour leadership contest if he beats Reform in the byelection, but has not ruled out challenging Starmer directly. A YouGov poll cited in the article found 59% of party members would back Burnham against Starmer, with 37% supporting the prime minister. The article notes that Starmer presides over a divided party after Labour’s local election results last month, with several cabinet ministers urging him to think about his future.
What’s reported
Keir Starmer’s closest aides are “war-gaming” how to win a leadership contest ahead of Andy Burnham’s return to Westminster if he wins the Makerfield byelection.
Downing Street sources said Starmer is now “hellbent” on fighting any contest.
His team is working through scenarios including sacking ministers who publicly support Burnham.
A loyalist minister said, “When the herd moves, it moves,” suggesting Starmer’s future may be out of his hands.
Burnham said last week he would seek to join any potential Labour leadership contest if he beats Reform in the byelection, but has not ruled out challenging Starmer.
A YouGov poll cited in the article shows 59% of party members would back Burnham against Starmer, with 37% supporting Starmer.
After Labour’s local election results last month, several cabinet ministers urged Starmer to think about his future.
Open questions
The article does not specify the exact date of the Makerfield byelection or the results of the local elections mentioned.
Key figures
Keir Starmer (Prime Minister)
Andy Burnham (potential leadership challenger)
Steve Reed (cabinet minister loyal to Starmer)
Rachel Reeves, Ed Miliband, Shabana Mahmood (named as potential ministers Starmer might sack)
Sources: The Guardian
