Key Takeaways
- Andy Burnham is considering appointing a deputy PM based in Manchester.
- Potential candidates have four days to submit their nominations for the Clacton byelection.
- Burnham may face international crises within weeks of taking office, according to political advisers.
Labour leader Andy Burnham is set to face significant challenges as he prepares to take over from Rishi Sunak. One of these challenges includes the potential appointment of a deputy PM based in Manchester, with the deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell being considered for this role. This move aims to strengthen Burnham's presence in the North and ensure better representation of Northern England’s interests.
The Clacton byelection is scheduled for 13 August, giving residents until 28 July to apply to vote or request a postal or proxy vote. The deadline for nominations from potential candidates is set for Friday, 17 July at 4pm, highlighting the urgency of Burnham’s transition.
Political advisers are warning that Burnham could face international crises within weeks of taking office. John Bew, a former No 10 foreign policy adviser, stated: 'I’d say there’s a high likelihood of a series of quite challenging contingencies happening.' These include potential escalations from Putin over the course of this summer and beyond due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Burnham is also expected to spend several days a month at Number 10 North, with Caroline Simpson, chief executive of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, set to run the new office. The transition team has suggested that political direction for the unit could be given by the next deputy prime minister based in Manchester.
Ministers are lobbying Burnham to keep their jobs as cabinet auditions continue across Westminster. Business Secretary Peter Kyle expressed his desire to remain in his position, stating: 'I want to stay, I’ll just stay where I am.' He also emphasized the need for 'Manchesterism'—a term highlighting the importance of local economic policies.
In a foreign policy speech, David Miliband reasserted his support for electoral reform and a transfer of power out of Westminster. Yvette Cooper, meanwhile, has already begun giving Burnham foreign affairs advice before heading to NATO.
Burnham’s transition is being closely watched by political observers who are concerned about the immediate challenges he may face. The upcoming byelection in Clacton will be crucial for Labour’s future prospects and Burnham’s ability to implement his policies.
'I’d say there’s a high likelihood of a series of quite challenging contingencies happening.'
John Bew, Former No 10 foreign policy adviser
'I want to stay, I’ll just stay where I am.'
Peter Kyle, Business Secretary
