Irish political strategist and former Downing Street Chief of Staff
Labour leaders are racing to confirm Andy Burnham as next prime minister as leadership contest talks wane. With nominations opening mid-July, Burnham appears the clear frontrunner and could be PM within days if no challenger secures the 81 backers needed.
Andy Burnham has secured overwhelming MP backing and appears poised to become Labour's leader and prime minister, with nominations advancing and a potential coronation by mid-July. Al Carns has ruled himself out, leaving Burnham as the sole declared candidate as nominations continue and a parliamentary hustings looms.
The Labour leadership race is underway with Andy Burnham gearing up for a possible No. 10 transition. Louise Haigh has described Burnham as having a long-stated plan for government, while insiders warn against an abrupt shift. The Mirror and BBC report show Burnham preparing for a potential prime ministership, with Haigh at the centre of transition talks.
Andy Burnham has been confirmed as Labour leader at a special conference in London and will become prime minister on Monday after Keir Starmer formally resigns to the King. Burnham has secured overwhelming support from Labour MPs, pledged a "distinctively Labour" government, and promised to devolve power, tackle social care and focus on growth outside London.
The edited set of interviews and comments from Sue Gray and related sources show a culture of leaks and briefings in No 10 amid leadership changes. Gray says the atmosphere was unbearable and that actions from Keir Starmer’s team were insufficient to curb negative briefings.
Labour faces a challenge in Holborn and St Pancras as Reform UK’s Zia Yusuf’s post questions the loyalties of Sagal Abdi-Wali, the Labour frontrunner, prompting strong criticism from Labour and other parties. Abdi-Wali, a former child refugee and Camden Council leader, is tipped to contest the seat after Keir Starmer’s resignation.
MPs have voted 286 to 270 against the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, ending the latest attempt to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. Campaigners have reacted with despair outside Parliament, opponents have welcomed the decision, and ministers are urging renewed focus on palliative and social care funding.