Sir Keir Starmer has defended the decision to block Andy Burnham from standing as a Labour MP, saying the move protects the party’s focus ahead of crucial UK elections.
The Prime Minister spoke to reporters on Monday, explaining that allowing the Greater Manchester mayor to run for Westminster could distract Labour during a key political moment.
The decision affects Labour’s national strategy as voters prepare for local and devolved elections across England, Wales and Scotland.
What did Keir Starmer decide about Andy Burnham?
Sir Keir Starmer confirmed that Labour’s ruling body, the National Executive Committee (NEC), has ruled out Andy Burnham running for a Westminster seat while he remains Mayor of Greater Manchester.
Although Sir Keir openly praised Mr Burnham’s performance as mayor, he said triggering a mayoral election now would place unnecessary strain on party resources.
Speaking to reporters, the Prime Minister said: “Andy Burnham’s doing a great job as the Mayor of Manchester, but having an election for the Mayor of Manchester when it’s not necessary would divert our resources away from the elections that we must have.”
Why does Labour say timing matters right now?
Labour faces several major electoral tests in 2025, including:
- Local council elections across England
- Welsh Senedd elections
- Scottish Parliament elections
Sir Keir stressed that these votes will directly affect “millions of people” and shape decisions on public services and the cost of living.
Keir Starmer principles…
He’s just blocked Andy Burnham from standing as an MP.
Not that long ago however he said this…. pic.twitter.com/31agg7qSRM
— JOHN NICOLSON 🇵🇸 🇺🇦 🇬🇱 (@MrJohnNicolson) January 25, 2026
He said Labour needs its funding, campaign staff and volunteers focused on these contests rather than a by-election it does not legally need to hold.
“Resources, whether that’s money or people, need to be focused on the elections that we must have, not elections that we don’t have to have.”
Is this about internal Labour divisions?
Sir Keir Starmer rejected claims that the decision reflects tensions within Labour. Instead, he framed it as a strategic choice driven by external political pressure.
He argued that Labour’s main challenge is not internal rivalry but the growing threat from Reform UK. “The battle of our times is between Labour and Reform UK, not within our own party.”
This framing places the decision firmly within Labour’s broader campaign strategy rather than a personal block on Mr Burnham’s ambitions.
How has Andy Burnham responded to the decision?
Andy Burnham appeared relaxed about the ruling and signalled that he is moving on.
After speaking at Manchester’s Whitworth Art Gallery on Monday, he told reporters: “I have said everything that I needed to say and I’m getting on with my job now.”
The Greater Manchester mayor has consistently said his priority is delivering on transport, housing and regional investment for the city region.
Why does this matter for UK politics?
Andy Burnham remains one of Labour’s most recognisable regional figures, having previously served as a cabinet minister and leadership contender. Any move to Westminster would attract national attention.
By backing the NEC’s decision, Keir Starmer is reinforcing a message of party discipline and electoral focus as Labour prepares for a packed election calendar.
