Starmer faces calls to step down after Burnham's byelection landslide

Andy Burnham's commanding win in the Makerfield byelection – with a majority of 9,000 – has triggered a fresh crisis for Keir Starmer's leadership, as senior Labour figures push for a managed succession.

The prime minister has insisted he will not resign and intends to fight any leadership contest, warning that such a move would plunge the party into chaos. However, multiple cabinet ministers and former Labour heavyweights are now calling on him to set a timetable for his departure to avoid a 'brutal and unpleasant' battle.

Sources indicate that around 200 Labour MPs may be prepared to sign nomination papers for a challenge against Starmer, with Burnham expected to travel to London on Monday to meet with MPs. Wes Streeting, another potential contender, has told supporters that a contest should proceed but only if Starmer does not participate.

Angela Rayner, previously seen as a leadership hopeful, has ruled out running if Burnham challenges Starmer. Meanwhile, Starmer's own team is reportedly preparing for a campaign, securing office space and raising over £100,000 in donations.

Some cabinet members, including Rachel Reeves, David Lammy, and Steve Reed, remain publicly loyal, but many others have remained silent. One cabinet source described the mood as unanimous: 'Everyone thinks it is over and wants a dignified, orderly exit.'

In his victory speech, Burnham framed the result as a turning point, stating that voters had 'voted for change, for more power for the north and everywhere forgotten by Westminster.' He later outlined a programme for government, declaring that 'Makerfield must become a byword for the change that came to British politics.'

The coming days are likely to be decisive, with an intervention at Tuesday's cabinet meeting expected if Starmer fails to indicate a transition plan over the weekend.