Burnham Close to Labour Leadership and Prime Minister’s Post, Wins Backing of 322 MPs

With the backing of 322 Labour MPs on the very first day of nominations for the new leader, Andy Burnham is very close to taking over the Labour Party and the post of Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

At present, Burnham remains the only declared name in the race to succeed Sir Keir Starmer. He needs just one more nomination to reach 323 votes, the threshold that would make it mathematically impossible for a rival to enter the contest. If no other candidate comes forward by next week’s deadline, he is expected to be confirmed unopposed.

Under this scenario, Burnham will be declared the new leader of the Labour Party next week and is expected to take office as prime minister on July 20.

In his first statement, he said he feels “deeply grateful” for the support of MPs. Burnham underlined that this backing comes from all wings of the party and reflects the belief that Britain needs a new approach to politics. He promised an economy focused on citizens, development for all regions, and changes in the way the country is governed.

To enter the process, each candidate must secure the backing of at least 81 Labour MPs, as well as nominations from at least three organizations or unions linked to the party. Burnham is expected to meet this requirement without difficulty as well.

His path to the party leadership became easier after former Defence Minister Al Carns dropped the possibility of running, leaving Burnham without any declared opponent.

Burnham’s move to the head of Labour comes after the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer, who stepped down from the post under growing pressure within the party, triggered by losses in the local elections and weak political results.

The former Mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham recently returned to Parliament after winning the by-election in Makerfield. He had previously run for the leadership of the Labour Party in 2010 and 2015, but without success.

During the coming week, Burnham is expected to hold his first meeting with Labour MPs, where he will present his governing priorities and political vision. He has also begun consultations with the state administration to prepare the program of the future government.

Commenting on Burnham’s candidacy, Sir Keir Starmer said he has known him for years and believes he will be a good prime minister for the United Kingdom.