Andy Burnham has confirmed that he will put himself forward to replace Keir Starmer as Prime Minister following the Labour leader’s resignation.
In a statement posted on social media, Burnham paid tribute to Starmer’s leadership and described the resignation as the start of a transition period for the party and the country.
“Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period.
“His decision marks the beginning of a transition and it is important that this process is conducted in an orderly and responsible way. 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. As we move forward, our priority must be to work together to get the country back to where we all want it to be.
“People want to see progress on economic growth, cost of living, public services, housing and opportunities for the next generation. Political change should never distract from the responsibility to improve people’s lives.
“The Labour movement has always been at its strongest when it looks forward with confidence and purpose.
“This is what we will do from here and we will make sure this transition is a positive process of renewal for our party and our country.”
Burnham’s announcement makes him one of the first senior Labour figures to publicly declare an intention to enter the leadership contest following Starmer’s departure.
The Mayor of Greater Manchester said the focus during the transition should remain on delivering economic growth, improving public services and addressing the cost-of-living pressures facing households across the country.
His intervention comes as Labour prepares for a leadership race that is expected to shape the future direction of both the party and the government.
