Desperate Starmer’s last-gasp bid to cling to energy with Andy Burnham cupboard trace
Sir Keir Starmer has said he wants Andy Burnham to have a ‘big role’ in the Labour Government, amid speculation the Greater Manchester Mayor could join the Cabinet
Burnham was accused of wanting a go at the Labour leadership since Starmer won a majority (Image: Getty Images)
Sir Keir Starmer has indicated he wants Andy Burnham to “play a big part” in the Labour Government, seemingly hinting at a potential invitation to join his Cabinet. The Greater Manchester Mayor is aiming for victory in the Makerfield by-election on Thursday, hoping to make a comeback to Westminster as an MP, and hasn’t been shy about his aspirations for Labour leadership.
On Wednesday, Sir Keir reiterated that he had no intention of stepping down from his position and planned to confront any challenge head-on. The Prime Minister also faces a looming threat from his former health secretary Wes Streeting, who has suggested he’s ready to instigate a Labour leadership contest as early as next week.
In comments to Sky News, Sir Keir seemed to imply he could incorporate Mr Burnham into his Government. “Andy is a great asset. And, yes, I want him to have a big role in government.”
When questioned if he would contact Mr Burnham over the weekend and invite him to join the Cabinet if he triumphs in Makerfield, the Prime Minister responded: “Well, I’m sure I’ll talk to Andy after the weekend, of course I will.
“I’ve spoken to him many times in recent weeks.”
The Prime Minister maintained that the spotlight would immediately shift to a race to fill Mr Burnham’s mayoral seat if he were to become an MP.
When questioned about his preparations for a potential Labour leadership contest, he informed journalists: “First and foremost, I want Andy Burnham to win, and that’s why I’ve encouraged activists and members to go up there during the course of the campaign, and they’ll be up there tomorrow helping to get the vote out.
“Then what happens is we’re immediately tipped into a Manchester mayoral contest by-election, one of the biggest by-elections that we’ve ever fought, because of the scale of it.
“And it’s really important to my mind that the whole of the Labour Party and Labour movement focuses on that, which is the next most immediate task.
“I don’t think there should be a challenge. I think history, particularly the last government, shows that that isn’t a successful way for a government to behave.
“But if there is a challenge, then I intend to fight.
“I’m not going to walk away from that, and I’ve been clear and consistent about that.”
Mr Streeting, on the other hand, claimed he has the support of the 80 MPs needed to participate in a contest and accused Sir Keir of not listening to the party or his Cabinet in a series of public appearances on Tuesday.
