Andy Burnham expressed uncertainty regarding the potential resignation of Andrew Gwynne, a suspended Labour MP, from the House of Commons. Gwynne, representing Gorton and Denton, faces rumors of stepping down, triggering a by-election for his North West seat after being removed as a minister and suspended from the Labour Party due to offensive messages in a WhatsApp group called Trigger Me Timbers.
Speculation arose that Burnham, the current Greater Manchester Mayor and former Cabinet minister, might contest the seat to challenge Keir Starmer’s position. However, Burnham clarified that he has not been officially informed about Gwynne’s resignation plans, emphasizing his focus on his mayoral duties. Any decision by Burnham to participate in a by-election would require approval from the National Executive Committee, which is aligned with Starmer and could potentially block Burnham’s candidacy, leading to party discord.
Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright criticized the potential obstruction of Burnham’s candidacy, calling it a “democratic outrage” and asserting the FBU’s support for his participation. Starmer refrained from endorsing Burnham’s MP candidacy, highlighting their collaborative efforts but deferring the decision to the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee.
Meanwhile, Gwynne, who previously denied intentions to vacate his seat, reportedly reached a settlement on his MP’s pension with the Commons, hinting at a possible retirement. Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged Gwynne’s health challenges and emphasized the need for strong candidates in a potential by-election, leaving the decision to party members.
The Mirror sought comments from Gwynne on the unfolding situation, as political dynamics within the Labour Party undergo scrutiny and potential shifts.