Fifty Labour MPs sign letter objecting to Burnham decision
Around 50 Labour MPs and several peers have signed a formal letter to Sir Keir Starmer, protesting the "undemocratic" decision to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing in the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election.
The signatories described the move as a "real gift" to Reform UK and the Green Party, warning that Labour risks losing the seat by preventing its "very best chance" from running. The letter urged the National Executive Committee (NEC) to re-evaluate its ruling to avoid "unnecessary and damaging" internal conflict.
The NEC Decision: A "8-1" Veto 🗳️
On Sunday, 25 January 2026, a 10-member panel of the NEC’s officers voted overwhelmingly to deny Burnham permission to seek the nomination.
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The Result: 8 members voted against Burnham, including Sir Keir Starmer.
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The Support: Deputy Leader Lucy Powell was the sole vote in favour of allowing the Mayor to stand.
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The Abstention: Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, chairing the meeting, abstained as per protocol.
Sir Keir Starmer defended the decision, arguing that triggering a new mayoral election would be a "disproportionate" drain on party funds and volunteers ahead of critical local, Scottish, and Welsh elections in May. He stated that resources must be focused on "elections that we must have, not elections that we don't have to have."
"Petty Factionalism" or Procedural Prudence?
The fallout has exposed deep rifts within the party:
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The Critics: Signatories—including left-wing MPs like Richard Burgon and Neil Duncan-Jordan—accused the leadership of "petty factionalism" and fearing a potential leadership challenge from the "King of the North."
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The Supporters: Starmer allies, including Housing Secretary Steve Reed, noted that taxpayers would face a £4.7 million bill for a mayoral by-election just two years into Burnham's four-year term.
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Andy Burnham’s Reaction: The Mayor expressed his "disappointment," particularly with how the news leaked to the media before he was personally informed. However, he has since stated he is "back in the job" and fully focused on Greater Manchester.
The Road Ahead: 26 February By-Election
The Gorton and Denton by-election, triggered by the resignation of Andrew Gwynne due to ill health, is expected to take place on Thursday, 26 February 2026.
With Burnham out of the race, Labour is now rushing to select a candidate by Saturday. Meanwhile, Reform UK and the Green Party have already launched "muscular" campaigns, sensing an opportunity to capitalise on the Labour infighting.
