Andy Burnham has a credible plan to return to Westminster “within weeks”, his allies have said, with the Greater Manchester mayor expected to use a byelection fight to set out a new agenda for government. Burnham, who was blocked by Labour’s ruling body from standing as a candidate in the 2024 general election, is now considering a parliamentary comeback via a byelection, according to sources close to him.
The move would see Burnham, a former Labour leadership candidate and health secretary, re-enter national politics after serving as mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017. Allies say he is preparing to campaign on a platform of devolution and public service reform, drawing on his experience running the combined authority.
No specific byelection has been confirmed, but speculation centers on constituencies where Labour holds a safe seat, possibly in the North West. Burnham’s team has not commented on exact timing, but the plan is described as “imminent” by insiders.
Burnham’s potential return comes as Labour under Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to consolidate its position after winning the 2024 general election. Burnham has been a vocal advocate for greater regional powers, and his return could reshape internal party dynamics.
