Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester Mayor, is reportedly preparing for a snap general election if he succeeds in his expected bid to oust Keir Starmer as Labour leader and become Prime Minister. according to a report citing party insiders, Burnham is wargaming an early election to secure a personal mandate after winning the upcoming Makerfield by-election. The claims have intensified speculation about Labour's future following disastrous local election results that have weakened Starmer's position.

The Makerfield by-election: a fast track to Westminster

Burnham is narrowly tipped to win the Makerfield by-election next month, a seat vacated by Labour MP Josh Simons to enable the mayor's return to Parliament. As reported, Burnham has spent recent weeks campaigning in the constituency, using public apperaances to distance himself from the current Labour leadership and present an alternative vision for the party. Victory in Makerfield would pave the way for a potential leadership challenge against Starmer, who faces mounting pressure after Labour's poor performance in May's local elections.

Shabana Mahmood as Chancellor: a deal done behind closed doors

Insiders claim Burnham is preparing a major Cabinet reshuffle and wants Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to become Chancellor if he enters No 10. According to the report, discussions between Burnham's camp and Mahmood's allies have been ongoing for some time. A senior party source told the Sun: 'Shabana is meant to have done a deal with Andy to be his Chancellor . That is why she let it be known she had told Keir to go. She was manoeuvring to get a big job.' Mahmood was among senior Cabinet ministers who reportedly urged Starmer to outline a timetable for his departure.

The constitutional question: a second King's Speech in 2025?

Reports suggest preparations are underway for a potential transfer of power, including an approach to Buckingham Palace to determine whether there would be constitutional objections to a second King's Speech being held later this year. Such a move would be highly unusual, signaling a clear break from the legislative programme on which Labour won the 2024 general election. As the report notes, a new Prime Minister may wish to introduce a fresh legislative agenda—but the Palace's reesponse remains unknown.

Labour MPs' revolt: a pledge demanded 'in blood'

While some Burnham supporters believe an early election would allow him to sceure a personal mandate, others fear it would provoke fury among Labour MPs worried about losing their seats. A senior Labour source told the Sun: 'Andy considering an early general election. They are wargaming it.. But Labour MPs would absolutely hate it. They are worried about loisng their seats. If Andy becomes PM I expect he will have to promise the PLP that he will not call a snap election. They will want him to sign the pledge in blood.' The tension highlights the deep divisions within Labour over the best path forward.