Prime Minister Keir Starmer has attempted to cool speculation that Andy Burnham may be preparing a leadership bid. Starmer publicly praised Burnham’s performance as Manchester’s mayor, calling him “really effective.”
Rumours resurfaced after Burnham appeared on several programmes to discuss Manchester’s new economic plan but declined to commit to ruling out a future challenge. His evasiveness has unsettled some within Labour’s ranks.
Speaking on his trip to the G20 summit in Johannesburg, Starmer highlighted their collaborative efforts following the recent attack on a Manchester synagogue. He stressed that he and Burnham communicated closely during the crisis.
The prime minister criticised those spreading internal rumours, noting that accusations about Health Secretary Wes Streeting plotting a coup only distract the government from its priorities. He emphasised that the cost-of-living crisis should remain the central focus.
Burnham, while denying any current leadership move, acknowledged that he “does not know what the future holds.” He also received an offer from MP Clive Lewis to step aside should he want a parliamentary seat.