British Labour MP Josh Simons has resigned from his parliamentary seat, potentially paving the way for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to return to the House of Commons through a by-election.
Simons, who represented the Makerfield constituency, announced his resignation through a statement shared on social media. In his resignation letter, he said the government had failed to deliver the level of change needed by people in his constituency.
He stated that he was stepping aside to “make way for a leader who has the radicalism, energy and immense courage to meet the moment,” a remark widely interpreted as support for Burnham’s return to national politics.
The resignation comes at a politically sensitive time for Britain’s ruling Labour Party, which is facing growing internal divisions following disappointing local election results.
Andy Burnham signals interest in contesting by-election
Shortly after Simons’ announcement, Burnham confirmed that he would seek permission from Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to contest the upcoming Makerfield by-election.
Burnham served as a Member of Parliament for 16 years before becoming Mayor of Greater Manchester in 2017. Over the years, he has emerged as one of Labour’s most recognisable regional leaders and has often been viewed as a potential future contender for the party leadership.
Earlier this year, Burnham’s attempt to return to Westminster was reportedly blocked by the Labour Party’s NEC. However, the latest vacancy could offer him another opportunity to re-enter Parliament.
Political observers in the UK believe Burnham could attract significant support within Labour if a leadership contest were to take place. Under party rules, however, only sitting MPs are eligible to contest the Labour leadership.
Pressure mounts on Keir Starmer after election setback
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing increasing political pressure after Labour’s poor performance in recent local elections.
According to multiple British media reports, more than 90 Labour MPs have reportedly urged Starmer to step down as party leader following the disappointing results.
The reports have intensified speculation about possible leadership challenges within the party, even as several senior cabinet ministers continue to publicly support the prime minister.
The growing unrest has exposed divisions within Labour over its political direction, campaign strategy and ability to maintain voter support ahead of the next general election.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigns from government
The political turmoil deepened further after British Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from the government on Thursday.
In his resignation letter, Streeting said he had “lost confidence” in Starmer’s leadership and could no longer remain in government “honorably and on principle.”
He also suggested that Starmer might not lead Labour into the next general election and called for an open debate about the party’s future leadership.
Responding to the resignation, Starmer expressed disappointment over Streeting’s departure and urged Labour members to remain united.
He said the party faced “a battle for the soul of our nation” and called on members to focus on delivering promises made to voters.
Starmer warns leadership challenge could trigger party chaos
Speaking earlier this week, Starmer warned that any attempt to remove him as Labour leader could plunge the party into “chaos” at a crucial political moment.
His comments came amid mounting speculation over possible leadership contenders, with Burnham’s name frequently being mentioned as a leading alternative within the party.
The upcoming Makerfield by-election is now expected to attract national attention as it could determine whether Burnham formally positions himself for a future leadership bid within the Labour Party.
(With inputs from IANS)