- Andy Burnham has won the Makerfield by-election, securing his return to Westminster and setting up a widely anticipated challenge to Sir Keir Starmer's leadership.
- He triumphed over Reform UK by 9,231 votes, increasing Labour's majority in a seat that had previously seen Reform support in local elections.
- In his victory speech, Mr Burnham declared that Labour has a “final chance to change” and must act upon the public's desire for a different political direction.
- Supporters have called for an “orderly and managed transition” of power, while Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to fight any leadership contest.
- Mr Burnham resigned as Greater Manchester mayor to contest the seat, pledging that Makerfield would be his “touchstone” rather than a “stepping stone” for his political ambitions.
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