- Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is seeking to return to Parliament by standing in the Makerfield by-election, following the resignation of MP Josh Simons from the traditionally safe Labour seat.
- Wes Streeting, who recently resigned from his ministerial role and is widely expected to mount a Labour leadership challenge, has publicly endorsed Burnham as Labour's 'best chance of winning' the by-election against Reform UK.
- Despite Streeting's public backing for Burnham, a campaign source confirmed his intention to be a candidate in any future Labour leadership contest, while Angela Rayner has also not ruled out running.
- Labour's deputy leader, Lucy Powell, confirmed there would be 'absolutely no attempt' to block Burnham from standing, with the party's National Executive Committee expected to decide on his candidacy next week.
- The Makerfield constituency, historically a Labour stronghold, is anticipated to be a challenging contest due to Reform UK's increased vote share in the recent general election, making Burnham's popularity crucial.
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