Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, expressed disappointment after the Labour Party's National Executive Committee (NEC) blocked his application to be the candidate for the Gorton and Denton by-election. The NEC, chaired by Shabana Mahmood and including Keir Starmer, voted 8-1 against Burnham's candidacy. Burnham criticized the decision and the current management of the Labour Party, suggesting the media was informed before he was, a claim a Labour source denied.
The decision has led to a backlash from Burnham's supporters, who warn of "deep-seated factionalism" and claim the move was a "stitch-up." Allies of Keir Starmer, however, reportedly feared that Burnham's return to Westminster could pose a threat to Starmer's leadership. Reports indicate Starmer personally advocated for blocking Burnham, arguing against the risk of a by-election in Greater Manchester and the recent "psychodrama."
Trade unions are divided on the issue. Unison's general secretary expressed disappointment and anger, stating local members should have a say, while the TSSA union accused the NEC of blocking Burnham for "factional reasons." Conversely, Usdaw's general secretary accepted the decision, acknowledging the potential for "major disruption" if Burnham stood. Burnham himself engaged with critics online, questioning the benefit of losing a by-election.