Streeting says he would join leadership race as Burnham vows to 'save' Labour
Wes Streeting has confirmed he would enter a potential Labour leadership contest following his resignation as health secretary, citing the need for a legitimate and inclusive race. Andy Burnham, cleared to run in the Makerfield by-election, says he aims to 'save' the Labour Party and reclaim its connection with working-class communities. Despite growing pressure, Keir Starmer resists calls to step down, warning a leadership contest could lead to chaos.
- ▪Wes Streeting resigned as health secretary and stated he would stand in a Labour leadership contest if triggered.
- ▪Andy Burnham was approved by Labour's National Executive Committee to run in the Makerfield by-election, a necessary step to re-enter Parliament and challenge for leadership.
- ▪The Makerfield by-election is expected to take place on 18 June, following Labour's poor performance in the 7 May local and national elections.
- ▪Nearly 90 Labour MPs have called for Keir Starmer to resign, while over 150 continue to support him.
- ▪Burnham argues the by-election is necessary to fix a political system that is not working for ordinary people.
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Streeting says he would join leadership race as Burnham vows to 'save' Labour28 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleElla KiplingGetty ImagesWes Streeting resigned as health secretary earlier this week but did not launch a formal leadership challengeWes Streeting has confirmed he would enter any potential Labour leadership contest, days after resigning as health secretary and telling the prime minister he had "lost confidence" in him.Streeting said on Saturday: "We need a proper contest with the best candidates on the field, and I will be standing."Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham told the BBC he was seeking to stand in the Makerfield by-election to "save" the Labour Party.Burnham - who is widely expected to try to replace Sir Keir Starmer as leader should he be…
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