Andy Burnham's bid to return to the UK Parliament has been blocked by the Labour Party's National Executive Committee (NEC). The decision was made to prevent what a minister described as a "psychodrama" ahead of crucial local elections. The NEC judged that the timing was not right for Burnham to return to Westminster, noting he has only served two years of his second term as Manchester Mayor.
Ministerial statements emphasized that the decision was about maintaining focus during the upcoming elections rather than factionalism. However, the move has sparked a revolt among some Labour MPs, particularly from the left of the party. Concerns were raised about potential local party members being denied the choice of their by-election candidate and accusations of a "stitch-up." Some MPs also expressed worry about the impact on the upcoming elections, with one MP stating "Now isn’t the time for Labour to turn inwards."
Burnham himself expressed disappointment with the NEC's decision, calling it a "huge mistake" and criticizing the party's internal operations after the decision was leaked to the press before he was informed. Allies of Health Secretary Wes Streeting have been accused of positioning for a potential leadership contest should one arise, with reports suggesting he has significant MP backing. Deputy leader Angela Rayner is also considered a potential contender. The NEC's vote against Burnham was reportedly 8-1, with the aim of avoiding the expenditure of energy, political capital, and time that could be wasted in a leadership contest, referencing past intra-party conflicts.