The Latest Breaking News from Andrew Gwynne

Preventing the mayor from returning to Westminster deprives the party of its most potent candidate in Gorton and Denton

The Home Secretary is chairing a meeting to decide if Mr Burnham can apply for selection as Labour’s candidate in the Gorton and Denton by-election.

The Home Secretary is chairing a meeting to decide if Mr Burnham can apply for selection as Labour’s candidate in the Gorton and Denton by-election.

The party’s National Executive Committee is expected to meet virtually.

Greater Manchester mayor has applied to stand for Labour in Gorton and Denton, setting up potential fight for PM’s political future

As a mayor Mr Burnham has to apply to Labour’s powerful ruling body, the National Executive Committee (NEC), whose membership includes many Starmer loyalists, for permission to stand in by-election

Manchester mayor also voices criticism about ‘way party is being run’ and hits back at those supporting blocking of path back to Westminster

Angela Rayner is expected to urge PM to let Greater Manchester mayor stand in Gorton and Denton byelection

After Andrew Gwynne’s exit, voters in Gorton and Denton are fractured – and increasingly willing to look elsewhere

NEWS ANALYSIS: Despite the prime minister’s efforts to improve relations with his backbenchers, speculation about his future refuses to die down. With Andy Burnham confirming he is seeking to return to Westminster, can Sir Keir cling on to power? Kate Devlin and David Maddox report

Labour heavyweight Andy Burnham could use a vacancy in a Greater Manchester seat to seek a path to return to Westminster.