Your support helps us to tell the story Read more Support Now From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more
Andy Burnham is reportedly planning a swift return to Westminster with intentions to challenge Sir Keir Starmer's leadership.
According to reports in The Guardian, the Labour Mayor of Greater Manchester has identified several constituencies where incumbent MPs are prepared to resign, thereby triggering by-elections that could facilitate his re-entry into Parliament within weeks.
His supporters are said to be keen to avoid a formal leadership challenge against the current Labour leader.
Instead, they reportedly hope to initiate a process for Sir Keir to step aside following what are widely anticipated to be disastrous results for Labour in the May 7 elections.
This alleged manoeuvre comes after Mr Burnham was blocked earlier this year by Labour's ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election.
Keir Starmer and Andy Burnham at an event in Greater Manchester ( Paul Ellis - WPA Pool/Getty Images )
The seat became vacant after the previous MP, Andrew Gwynne, stood down due to health reasons.
The NEC reportedly justified its decision by citing concerns over the costs associated with running a new Manchester mayoral election, alongside fears that the Reform party could potentially seize the mayoralty.
He is now reported to be lining up an “impressive” candidate to replace him as mayor, who The Guardian said was not a sitting MP.
Mr Burnham, who served as health secretary in Gordon Brown’s government, is also said to be preparing a progressive policy platform for Government.
Constituencies across Merseyside and Greater Manchester are reportedly among those where MPs are prepared to stand aside for Mr Burnham, The Guardian said.
Earlier this week, in an interview with the BBC, Labour MP for Bootle Peter Dowd rejected suggestions he was preparing to make way for Mr Burnham.