LONDON — Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, has emerged as the frontrunner to succeed Keir Starmer as leader of the UK Labour Party and prime minister, after Starmer announced his resignation on Monday.
Starmer said he would step down once a successor is in place, following mounting pressure within the party. Burnham, who won a by-election in Makerfield last week and was sworn in as a member of Parliament on Monday, confirmed he would put himself forward for the leadership.
Wes Streeting, a former health secretary and potential rival, endorsed Burnham, increasing the likelihood of an uncontested process. Nominations for the leadership are expected to open in early July, with a new leader possibly in place by mid-July if Burnham faces no challengers, according to party timelines reported by multiple outlets.
Burnham, 56, served as Greater Manchester mayor before returning to national politics. He has been described by supporters as a figure who connects with voters outside London. “I will put myself forward as part of this process,” Burnham said in a statement following Starmer’s announcement.
Starmer’s resignation comes after less than two years in office. In an emotional address, he thanked colleagues and cited the need for renewal. The transition is expected to be orderly, with no new major policy commitments until a new leader is selected.
Some Labour MPs have called for a contested election to ensure a broader mandate, but momentum has built rapidly around Burnham. Nigel Farage of the Reform UK party has called for an immediate general election.
Burnham met with Starmer on Tuesday, their first meeting since the by-election. Labour figures, including North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, described Burnham’s succession as appearing largely settled.
As of Wednesday, Burnham was engaging with party colleagues ahead of the formal process. Exact dates for nominations closing and any final confirmation depend on whether additional candidates emerge. Starmer is expected to remain in post during the transition.
The development would make Burnham Britain’s seventh prime minister in a decade if he assumes the role. Details on the full leadership timetable and any potential general election remain subject to further announcements by the party.
