As Keir Starmer faces potential challenges following the May elections and the Peter Mandelson controversy, some Labour Party members suggest an unexpected ally from the northwest could provide temporary relief. This week has highlighted the prime minister’s isolation amid conflicts with civil servants over Mandelson’s vetting failure. Labour parliamentarians have shared with the Guardian that they are encouraging restraint against removing Starmer next month. Instead, they advocate for Andy Burnham’s return to national politics to eventually take over before the next general election. On Thursday, amid Starmer’s disputes, the Greater Manchester mayor was active in local election campaigns across five London areas: Haringey, Islington, Southwark, Lewisham, and Bromley. Previously seen as distant by some new southern MPs from the 2024 cohort, Burnham has worked to foster connections. Now, numerous Labour MPs indicate they would support Starmer against a leadership bid to allow time for Burnham’s comeback, after he was prevented from contesting the Gorton and Denton by-election. Starmer can likely rely on the party’s left wing to back him, delaying any replacement. Meanwhile, enthusiasm for Burnham has risen among the party’s right flank. A prominent centrist MP stated, ‘It’s Andy or nothing. No other option succeeds. Any move before he has a route is premature.’ Associates confirm Burnham has signaled to MPs his intent to re-enter parliament soon and has engaged with more 2024 newcomers to form partnerships. He was observed meeting former deputy leadership contender Angela Rayner over the weekend, who is also viewed as a possible successor. Several cabinet members express a desire to prevent hasty actions against Starmer to grant Burnham additional time. One parliamentarian noted, ‘Various proposals are floating around, none ideal.’ A source mentioned that backbenchers plan to insist Starmer facilitate Burnham’s return in exchange for their loyalty in a potential summer contest, which could arise from a formal challenge. ‘This shift has occurred recently – MPs have united behind Burnham more than before. They aim to avoid the Conservatives’ chaotic handover from Boris Johnson to another establishment figure. They’re prepared to extend the timeline until Burnham rejoins.’ Another commented, ‘It must be Andy – no other prospective leader can secure victory. This has led to a standstill where action is avoided.’ A third added, ‘Focus group feedback on Andy is invaluable. Participants say he ‘cares about ordinary people.’ That’s uncommon praise for a politician. We can’t react impulsively and worsen our situation.’ Even Starmer’s vocal left-wing detractors are ready to maintain his position until Burnham can return. A left-leaning MP said, ‘A coup right after May 8 would be disastrous. We won’t support it; we need to hold off for Andy.’ However, some fear prolonged delays could harm the party long-term. One MP remarked, ‘The Labour Party’s adherence to procedures often means we act too late.’ Another expressed, ‘I’m unsure if the reputational harm could be repaired by 2028 in key battlegrounds.’ Starmer’s supporters have reminded colleagues of public backlash to a mid-crisis leadership fight, especially amid economic strains. A senior backbencher warned that challenging Starmer during the Iran conflict would be politically fatal. ‘Those new 2024 MPs pushing for an interim leader should think about national reaction. The public and Conservatives would call for an immediate election, since voters chose Starmer as PM. Without a broad Labour surge this time, it’s a massive gamble to oust an elected leader. Politics involves enduring ups and downs. Removing a PM during a national emergency is simply reckless.’ Highlighting weaknesses in alternatives, they continued, ‘Complaining about Andy Burnham is pointless – he’s currently ineligible. Wes Streeting is tainted. Angela Rayner faces tax authority scrutiny. Ed Miliband cost us 2015. Shabana Mahmood is widely disliked. Who would run?’ Multiple sources anticipate Starmer will dismiss post-election demands from opponents. A minister observed, ‘He’s determined to hold his role at any cost. Dismiss Wes, dismiss Ed, whatever necessary. This isn’t someone you approach with ultimatums and expect compliance.’
