Overview
- A 10‑member NEC panel reportedly voted 8–1 to reject Andy Burnham’s request, with Lucy Powell backing him and chair Shabana Mahmood abstaining.
- Keir Starmer publicly argued the rule exists to prevent avoidable elections and said a mayoral contest would divert people and money from mandatory May elections.
- Andy Burnham said he was disappointed and returned to his mayoral duties, and after he complained of learning the decision via the media, a cabinet minister acknowledged the outcome may have leaked before he was contacted.
- The move drew criticism from MPs and unions, with reports of member resignations and letters of protest, as some warned it could damage Labour’s campaigning and unity.
- Opposition parties are positioning for the contest, with figures from Reform UK and the Greens eyeing the seat, and some reports indicating the by‑election is scheduled for 26 February.