Downing Street accused of plot to derail Andy Burnham’s by-election hopes
Downing Street is accused of attempting to undermine Andy Burnham's chances in the upcoming by-election. Allies of Burnham claim that the Labour leadership may not fully support him, fearing his potential return could bring back former leader Jeremy Corbyn. The situation has raised concerns among Labour MPs about the party's prospects in the Makerfield constituency.
- ▪Downing Street is allegedly involved in a plot to derail Andy Burnham's parliamentary ambitions.
- ▪Labour MPs have been informed that Burnham's success could lead to the return of Jeremy Corbyn.
- ▪Polling experts suggest that if Burnham wins the by-election, he may become the next Labour leader.
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NewsUKUK PoliticsDowning Street accused of plot to derail Andy Burnham’s by-election hopesExclusive: Labour MPs are being briefed that Burnham could bring back Corbyn amid claims of a dirty tricks campaign to stop the Greater Manchester mayorDavid Maddox Political Editor, Kate Devlin & Millie CookeMonday 18 May 2026 19:44 BSTBookmarkCommentsGo to commentsBookmark popoverRemoved from bookmarksClose popover{"translations":{"comments":"Go to comments","share":"Share","copyLink":"Copy link","bookmark":"Bookmark","removeBookmark":"Remove bookmark"},"showComments":true,"showBookmark":true,"articleId":"b2978882","articleMeta":{"url":"https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/andy-burnham-byelection-downing-street-plot-starmer-b2978882.html","title":"Downing Street accused of plot to derail…
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