STORY
Andy Burnham is on course to become Labour leader after receiving support from an overwhelming majority of the Parliamentary Labour Party. No rival candidate has emerged with a realistic prospect of reaching the nomination threshold, leaving Burnham effectively assured of succeeding Keir Starmer.
Reports indicated that more than 300 Labour MPs had backed Burnham, prompting criticism from some members who argued that the speed of the process had limited scrutiny. Labour is expected to confirm the result at a special party conference before Burnham is appointed Prime Minister.
Burnham has promised a change in political direction, including greater devolution and a stronger focus on public services outside London. He will inherit a difficult economic position and immediate disputes within Labour over migration, welfare reform, foreign policy and the pace of public service improvement.