Andy Burnham has opened his campaign for the Makerfield byelection with remarks that signal broader ambitions within the Labour Party. Speaking to local MPs and activists, the Greater Manchester mayor described a vote for him as support for changing the party’s direction, while stopping short of directly challenging Keir Starmer’s leadership. Burnham outlined national policy positions on the economy, immigration and electoral reform. He said he would adhere to Labour’s existing spending and tax commitments but would redirect funds, including using the full £39 billion affordable housing allocation for council homes only. He expressed general support for recent immigration measures but suggested possible adjustments to rules on indefinite leave to remain. Burnham also pledged that any government he led would commit to introducing a proportional voting system in its next manifesto. The event took place in the car park of a community sports club in Ashton-in-Makerfield. Separately, a dispute has arisen over Reform UK’s activities in the constituency. The director of a Wigan charity for adults with additional needs wrote to Nigel Farage requesting an apology after his group entered the premises without notice, describing the visit as intimidating. Reform MP Lee Anderson said the stop was unplanned and for refreshments. Burnham, who has long supported the charity, was present for an unrelated awards ceremony at the time.
