Andy Burnham has been sworn in as the new Labour Member of Parliament for Makerfield, marking a dramatic political shift that came just hours after British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation, setting the stage for what is widely expected to be a swift transition in the country’s leadership.
Burnham’s return to Westminster follows a decisive by-election victory that strengthened his position within Labour and quickly turned him into the overwhelming favourite to succeed Starmer as party leader and Britain’s next prime minister.
Starmer stepped down after mounting pressure from within Labour following poor local election results, declining support in traditional working-class constituencies and the growing influence of Reform UK.
Speaking at Downing Street, he acknowledged that the confidence of his parliamentary colleagues had faded.
“The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election,” Starmer said. “I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace,” he added.
The outgoing Prime Minister defended his record, saying his decisions had always been guided by the national interest.
“Every decision I’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first,” he said, adding that he would remain in office until Labour selects a new leader.
Hours later, Burnham arrived at the House of Commons and officially took the parliamentary oath as the new MP for Makerfield, receiving a warm welcome from Labour lawmakers eager to rally behind a fresh face.
Before his swearing-in, Burnham praised Starmer’s leadership while confirming his intention to seek the party’s top position.
“Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership,” Burnham said.
“I will put myself forward as part of this process. The country expects stability, seriousness and a continued focus on the issues that matter most, and that is what it will get,”he added .
His bid gained further momentum after former Health Secretary Wes Streeting withdrew from the race and publicly backed him.
“I hope everyone else will back Andy, too,” Streeting urged, a move that significantly strengthened Burnham’s chances of securing the leadership without a prolonged contest.
Political observers say Burnham’s return reflects Labour’s determination to reconnect with voters in its traditional heartlands after recent electoral setbacks and increasing competition from Reform UK. His reputation as a champion of regional development and public services is expected to shape the party’s next chapter.
Although Labour still commands a parliamentary majority, the incoming leader will inherit the challenge of restoring public confidence while tackling economic pressures, strengthening public services and uniting a party that has faced growing internal divisions.
