Speculation grows that Labour leader Keir Starmer may resign after Andy Burnham's by-election win
After Andy Burnham secured the Makerfield by-election, Labour sources say a growing number of MPs are urging a leadership contest and questioning Prime Minister Keir Starmer's continued tenure.
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Andy Burnham’s victory in the Makerfield by-election has intensified discussion within the Labour Party about a possible change of leader. Several senior figures and unnamed sources said that many MPs now view Burnham as a viable alternative to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and believe a leadership contest could be imminent.
Sources close to the party reported that Starmer has expressed confidence he could win a leadership vote, with one insider noting that he told close allies, "I'm sure I could win." At the same time, other insiders described a shift among cabinet members, saying they do not want the prime minister to "humiliate himself" in a contest.
Labour MPs are reportedly weighing the political risk of replacing a leader after a by-election in which only about 77,000 voters participated. Former minister Jess Philips told the BBC that any challenger should be "tested with the rigour of at least some manner of contest," highlighting concerns about legitimacy without a general election.
The debate comes as the party grapples with recent electoral setbacks in Wales and earlier by-elections. While some party veterans, including former ministers, have been mentioned as possible contenders, the immediate focus remains on whether Starmer will step aside or face a formal leadership challenge.
No official statement has been released by the prime minister’s office, and the situation is expected to develop over the coming days.
