Efforts to remove Keir Starmer from his position in Downing Street saw a significant development on Thursday. Labour MP Josh Simons made a bold move by announcing his intention to step down as an MP, clearing the path for Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham to potentially return to Parliament. However, the process to reach Westminster is expected to be complex.
A by-election is set to take place in Simons’ Makerfield constituency in the North West, where Burnham is likely to nominate himself as a candidate. The final decision on his candidacy rests with the National Executive Committee, Labour’s governing body. Previously, the NEC had blocked Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election due to concerns about the costs of holding another election to replace him as mayor. Nevertheless, there are indications that the NEC’s stance may be softening.
Simultaneously, Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from the Government, stating that it is evident Starmer will not lead Labour into the next general election. Despite being a long-time contender for leadership, Streeting did not formally challenge Starmer, as an official bid requires the support of 81 Labour MPs.
Streeting emphasized the need for a diverse range of candidates in a potential leadership contest, hinting at the possibility of Burnham returning. If Burnham successfully wins a by-election and re-enters Parliament, he may trigger a leadership contest if he garners enough support.
The Mirror examines potential candidates for a Labour leadership race that may be initiated.
Streeting’s aspirations for leadership have been widely known. His background, rising from a council flat in east London, has shaped his passion for politics. Despite facing challenges, including a battle with kidney cancer, Streeting’s tenure as Health Secretary has shown mixed results, with improvements in NHS waits but also facing issues such as resident doctor strikes.
Streeting’s connections with Peter Mandelson, a former British Ambassador dismissed over ties with Jeffrey Epstein, have raised concerns. Their released texts revealed criticism of the government’s economic strategies.
Additionally, Streeting advocated for the recognition of Palestine, acknowledging potential political challenges in his area. His narrow victory in the 2024 election showcased the close competition he faces.
Angela Rayner, known for her authentic working-class background, has had a notable political journey. Rising from a council estate, her dedication to social and affordable housing as Housing Secretary resulted in substantial investments. However, a breach of the ministerial code over tax issues marred her image as a working-class icon.
Rayner’s recent clearance by HMRC regarding her tax affairs has potentially opened the door for her to join the leadership race. While she has denied plans to trigger a leadership contest, speculation suggests she may enter as a soft-left candidate if Streeting is the sole contender.
In the event of a leadership race, Starmer will automatically be a candidate, with his decision to contest depending on his willingness to continue leading Labour.
Before his political career, Starmer excelled as a human rights barrister, eventually becoming the Director of Public Prosecutions. His family background and professional experiences have significantly influenced his political journey. Elected as an MP in 2015, Starmer’s tenure as Labour leader since 2020 has seen shifts towards centrist policies, aiming to navigate the party through challenging times.
Despite initially securing a historic victory in 2024, Starmer’s popularity has waned due to controversial policy decisions. Public opinion indicates Burnham as a preferred replacement for Starmer.
Burnham’s popularity surpasses Starmer’s in recent polling, signaling strong public support for his potential leadership. However, despite Burnham’s experience and past attempts at Labour leadership, several obstacles lie ahead in his path to potentially leading the party.
The possibility of Ed Miliband entering the leadership race to unite the soft left has also surfaced. As a well-regarded figure within the Labour membership, Miliband’s past leadership stint raises concerns about his viability as a candidate.
Amidst established contenders, Al Carns, the Armed Forces Minister, has emerged as a potential leadership candidate. His military background and strategic insights have intrigued MPs, despite reservations about his political experience and adaptability in the political arena.
Carns’s recent statements hint at his serious consideration for a leadership bid, showcasing his ambition and readiness for the challenges of a leadership race.